I know I’m a soft target for attackers. Many people ask why I stay silent when trolled on social media. My answer is simple — the good I’ve done and the love I’ve received are my shields. They speak for me.Chiranjeevi Former Union Minister and veteran actor 

Former Union Minister and veteran actor Chiranjeevi said his commitment to public service and humanitarian work has protected him from online trolls and criticism. Speaking at the Mega Phoenix Blood Donation Camp held in Hyderabad on Wednesday, the actor reflected on how good deeds have become his "shield" against negativity.

Chiranjeevi attended the camp as chief guest, alongside actors Samyuktha Menon and Teja Sajja. The event, organised in collaboration with the Phoenix Foundation, aimed to promote blood donation and raise public awareness about its life-saving importance.

Despite being out of active politics, Chiranjeevi remains in the public spotlight. His recent meeting with the Telangana Chief Minister has sparked speculation about a possible return to politics, particularly in light of the upcoming Jubilee Hills by-election. However, Chiranjeevi dismissed such talk and reaffirmed his focus on public service and cinema.

“I know I’m a soft target for attackers. Many people ask why I stay silent when trolled on social media. My answer is simple — the good I’ve done and the love I’ve received are my shields. They speak for me,” Chiranjeevi said at the event.

The actor recounted an emotional moment when a woman defended him from political criticism, explaining that her child was alive because of his blood bank initiative. The woman from Rajahmundry publicly defended him after a politician made disparaging remarks. “When asked why she supported me so strongly, she told the media I was like a saviour to her family. Her son had received platelets from the Chiranjeevi Blood Bank, which saved his life. She said she admired me more for my service than for my films. That truly made my day,” he recalled.

“Moments like those give me strength and reinforce why I focus on service,” he said.

Chiranjeevi revealed that the idea to start a blood bank came after reading a journalist’s article, and said he would always be indebted to that journalist. He also acknowledged that, despite stepping away from politics, some political leaders continue to target him on social media.

“A leader recently made an inappropriate remark about me. But I believe the best way to respond to those who speak ill of me is to do good,” he said.

Chiranjeevi had earlier launched the Praja Rajyam Party, which was later merged with the Congress. He served as a Union Minister in the UPA government before retiring from politics.

Now focused on philanthropy and cinema, Chiranjeevi confirmed he has no plans to return to politics. It may be noted that in the last few years there have been at least five times when he clearly said that he would not enter politics again. Addressing his fans, Chiranjeevi encouraged them to focus on positivity and service. “I believe in continuing to do good deeds without being distracted by criticism. That’s the path I’ve chosen,” he said. He also acknowledged the support of fans around the globe who are participating in blood donation efforts. “Our good work earns us respect and credibility,” he added. The actor is currently preparing for the release of his upcoming film Vishwambhara.