Hyderabad:
Telugu Desam Party (TDP) founder N.T. Rama Rao's son and popular Telugu actor N. Balakrishna on Saturday said he would soon enter active politics.
Mr Balakrishna, however, made it clear that TDP chief and his brother-in-law N. Chandrababu Naidu would be the chief ministerial candidate in 2014 elections.
Talking to reporters in Hyderabad, he denied that there are any differences within the NTR family. "People will teach lesson to those trying to create a rift in the family," he said.
The actor, who campaigned for TDP in 2009 elections, hinted that he would formally announce his entry into active politics in the next "Mahanadu" or the annual conclave of the party.
His remarks assume significance in view of the recent developments in the party with party legislator Kodali Nani switching loyalties to YSR Congress Party. Mr Nani is a close friend of popular actor Junior NTR, the nephew of Balakrishna and grandson of late NTR.
Junior NTR, however, has denied any role in Nani's defection and also differences in the family.
Mr Balakrishna said Junior NTR was busy in films and hence was not participating in party activities.
He also said his son-in-law N. Lokesh could enter active politics if he wanted to.
Mr Lokesh is the son of Chandrababu Naidu and there were recent reports of a succession war in the party in view of Mr Naidu's attempts to groom his son as the next leader.
NTR's elder son and TDP politburo member N. Harikrishna wants his son Junior NTR to take over the reins of the party.