To counter Mr Charismatic Chiranjeevi's Praja Rajyam, stars of the Nandmuri clan – namely, Balakrishna, Junior NTR, Kalyan Ram, will hold road shows to garner support for the Telugu Desam party (TDP.)

The clash between the two star families can be billed as a clash of titans to make the contest in around 100-odd seats worth keeping an eye on. Chiranjeevi holds the highest number of fan clubs followed by die-hard fans of Balakrishna and supporters of both the camps are known for betting big bucks on box-office records of their respective stars.

Later Pavan Kalyan and Jr NTR joined the fray to thicken the rivalry and bets and wordy duels continued unabated. "If Balakrishna campaigns or if even he contests, then our Praja Rajyam will have neck-to-neck fights in numerous seats in Rayalaseema, but I don't think they can make a big impact in other regions," says Gopal, an ardent Chiranjeevi supporter. With a staunch supporter conceding anticipation a close fight, it seems that a keen contest is on the cards.

TDP President Chandrababu Naidu has tactfully roped in NTR's family to counter Chiranjeevi's popularity. With the star-turned-politician all set for his campaign trail, the former Chief Minister has urged the 'stars' of the famed clan to begin 'Yuva Garjana' to unveil the statues of late NTR besides addressing political rallies.

"He had no other choice, since he had to halt the exodus of leaders besides rejuvenating demoralised party cadre," says a senior political analyst who opines that a few more big leaders are on their way out. "We can give a strong fight in the Krishna- Guntur districts, north Andhra and some seats in coastal areas as well," reveals the follower of Nandamuri kinfolk.

With close combat in 100-odd seats and the Telangana vote bank already split between various parties, it seems that Chiranjeevi has to announce a few populist schemes. After late MGR and NTR, the leading actor should add populism to his charisma to deliver the final blow.