In a development that could alter the political equations in Andhra Pradesh, Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi Sunday announced his formal entry into politics and said he was dedicating his life to serve people.

Addressing a crowded press conference at his newly-inaugurated party office at the Jubilee Hills here, the actor said he would announce the name of his party at a public meeting Aug 26 in the temple town of Tirupati.

Stating that he was entering politics to do more public service, the actor said he wanted to bring in a change.

"It is a memorable day in my life. After spending 30 years in cine field, I have decided to enter politics in response to the call from all sections of people. From here onwards, I am dedicating my life to serve people, " said Chiranjeevi, ending months of speculations on his political entry.

"I am donning a new role. I can't act in this role. In this new role, I have to live for others and this gives a satisfaction to me, " said the 53-year-old actor, who also runs a blood bank.

"I consider it as a blessing from God. I am fortunate to get this opportunity. Few have got this opportunity. I take it as my responsibility, " he said, thanking his fans for reminding him of his responsibility by holding meetings and rallies to urge him to take a plunge into politics.

"I am not into politics for the sake of posts or power but for the satisfaction and peace of mind. God has given me popularity and money. It can't tempt me, " he said.

The actor said he was inspired by Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to serve the needy.

"Hence my first public meeting is being organized on August 26, her birth anniversary, " he said.

Chiru, as his popularly known among his fans, said he was moved by the appeal made by a home guard and an IT couple before committing suicides due to personal problems.

"A home guard in Khammam district and an IT couple in Hyderabad ended their lives due to personal problems but wrote in their suicide notes that Chiranjeevi should enter into politics to bring a change. They reminded me of my responsibility, " he said.

The actor said he was impressed by the vision of former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who was among several eminent persons he has met in recent months.

"Abdul Kalam told me that people are looking at you not just as an actor but beyond an actor. You should come into politics. It will be wrong on part of good people if they don't come into politics. After this I felt that it would be historic blunder if I don't enter into politics, " Chiranjeevi said.

Celebrations broke out outside his office as he announced his entry into politics. Hundreds of his fans, who had gathered outside, burst crackers and distributed sweets.