Entertainment
When Nani Revealed the Real Story Behind His ‘Natural Star’ Tag: ‘I Thought He Was Joking…’
The ‘Natural Star’ title has followed Nani for years, but the Telugu actor once admitted he was initially uncomfortable with it — until one blockbuster and the love of his fans changed everything.
Nani may be celebrating a career-best box-office opening with The Paradise, but there is another part of his journey that continues to fascinate fans the story behind the nickname that has become almost inseparable from his name: “Natural Star.”
For years, audiences have associated the title with Nani’s effortless performances and relatable screen presence. However, the actor once revealed that there was no carefully planned branding exercise behind the tag. Instead, it developed gradually and Nani himself was initially unsure about using it.
How Nani Became the ‘Natural Star’
During an IMDb Icons Only interaction in 2024, Nani explained that the nickname was not inspired by one particular character or performance. It grew out of the kind of films he was choosing and the natural style of acting audiences had begun associating with him.
People initially started referring to him as “Sahaja Natudu,” which translates to “Natural Actor.”
The title then found its way onto the screen. Nani recalled that the director of Janda Pai Kapiraju used a title card associated with “Natural Actor/Natural Star” for him. The tag gained greater prominence when director Maruthi wanted to use “Natural Star” for the 2015 comedy Bhale Bhale Magadivoy.
Nani initially thought the idea was a joke.
‘I Didn’t Want Him to Put That’
Speaking about his hesitation, Nani said that he was not immediately comfortable with having such a title attached to his name.
He eventually agreed because Bhale Bhale Magadivoy was a comedy and felt the tag could be taken in a lighter spirit. What happened next changed his perception.
The film became a major success, and audiences embraced the nickname. Soon, other filmmakers also began using “Natural Star” while presenting Nani on screen.
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For an actor who had once felt awkward about star titles, the response from fans made the difference.
Fans Made the Nickname Personal
Over time, Nani began seeing fans address him affectionately as their “Natural Star.” The title was no longer simply something appearing before his name in movie credits it had become a way for audiences to express their admiration.
That emotional connection eventually helped Nani become comfortable with the nickname.
Interestingly, his journey explains why the title has endured. Instead of being introduced overnight as a promotional label, “Natural Star” evolved alongside his career from “Sahaja Natudu” and “Natural Actor” to the name millions of moviegoers now recognise.
Nani’s ‘The Paradise’ Opens Big at the Box Office
The old revelation has gained fresh relevance as Nani returns to cinemas with The Paradise, directed by Srikanth Odela.
Released worldwide on September 24, 2026, the Telugu action drama registered the biggest opening of Nani’s career. According to figures reported by Sacnilk, the film grossed ₹76.90 crore worldwide, including ₹54.90 crore in India and ₹22 crore overseas. Its Day 1 India net collection stood at approximately ₹34.65 crore.
The film features Nani, Raghav Juyal and Kayadu Lohar, with Srikanth Odela returning to collaborate with Nani after Dasara.
From feeling awkward about being called a star to delivering the biggest opening of his career, Nani’s journey has given the “Natural Star” tag a meaning that goes far beyond a title card.
