Vijay Deverakonda & Chiranjeevi's heartfelt confessions on 'Middle-Class' values

The Telugu Digital Media Federation (DMF) organized an event titled Original Day in Hyderabad on Sunday evening, drawing Telugu influencers and Tollywood celebrities. Vijay Deverakonda and Chiranjeevi graced the stage, delving into discussions ranging from family values to career milestones. 

While Vijay and Chiranjeevi have achieved significant success in their careers and seen an improvement in their economic status, they both confessed to maintaining a 'middle-class' mindset. "My life has changed a lot, but in my head, I’m still that middle-class boy," remarked Vijay. He added, "I still have the habit of putting water when the shampoo bottle is almost empty so I make the most of it before throwing it away."

Chiranjeevi echoed similar sentiments, revealing his frugal habits with soap and electricity. "I combine pieces of little soap to use it for another week instead of throwing it away. My family habitually wastes electricity, and I go around switching off lights," he disclosed. He humorously recounted an incident where he had to turn off lights at Charan's place before their trip to Bangkok.

Reflecting on family values, Vijay queried Chiranjeevi about his role in the Mega family. Chiranjeevi credited his father, Venkat Rao, as his inspiration. "My father taught me how to look after my family. I grew up seeing him take care of my mother's family too as his own," he revealed.

Opening up about his journey to success, Vijay shared his family's emotional reaction to his achievements. In contrast, Chiranjeevi expressed his early determination to become not just an actor, but a superstar. "I craved that adoration from people. I prayed to Anjaneya Swamy (Hanuman) every day, and I negotiated with him for my success," he disclosed.

Despite his aspirations, Chiranjeevi faced challenges, recalling a humiliating incident on the sets of Nyayam Kavali. "I was yelled at on set one day. 'Do you think you’re a superstar?' they asked me. I felt humiliated," he recounted. This setback only fueled his ambition, propelling him towards his goal of superstardom.

Vijay Deverakonda is currently busy promoting his upcoming film Family Star with Mrunal Thakur.  As for Chiranjeevi, he is currently working on his next, titled Vishwambhara, helmed by Vassishta. The film also features Trisha Krishnan, Vennela Kishore, Meenakshi Chaudhary and more in prominent roles, and is touted to be a socio-fantasy film.