In 2021, when K Rangaiah was serving as acting headmaster at MPPS Sawarkheda of Kerameri Mandal in Kumuram Bheem Asifabad district, he received an award from the President of India. In a chit-chat with director Venky Atluri, he said that watching 'SIR' reminded him of some of the incidents from his life.
"I was 39 when I received the award. I was the youngest teacher in the country to receive an award from the President. Watching 'SIR' made me emotional. The scene where the children beseech Dhanush's character in the second half is so touching," Rangaiah said.
The film, released on February 17, has been a hit across territories in the Telugu States. Its Tamil cousin, 'Vaathi', is also a box-office winner. Sithara Entertainments gifted Rangaiah with Rs 3 lakh as a token of appreciation for being an inspiration for many teachers.
Venky Atluri appreciated the selfless work done by Rangaiah, who is a religious person who observes Deekshas on a regular basis.
