84-522: Pasupuleti Venkata Bangarraju , known professionally as Krishna Vamsi , is an Indian film director, producer and choreographer known for his work in Telugu cinema . Vamsi started his career as an assistant director to Ram Gopal Varma . He made his directorial debut with the 1995 crime film Gulabi , starring J. D. Chakravarthi . He has received three (3) National Film Awards , three Filmfare Awards South and Nine (9) Nandi Awards . In 1996, he directed
168-783: A memorandum of understanding with the Motion Picture Association of America to combat video piracy. In the years 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2014 the industry has produced the largest number of films in India, exceeding the number of films produced in Bollywood . The digital cinema network company UFO Moviez marketed by Southern Digital Screenz (SDS) has digitised several cinemas in the region. The Film and Television Institute of Telangana, Film and Television Institute of Andhra Pradesh, Ramanaidu Film School and Annapurna International School of Film and Media are some of
252-578: A "must watch" with children. Eega won various awards at the 8th Toronto After Dark Film Festival . Sub Genre war drama Kanche (2015) by Krish Jagarlamudi explored the 1944 Nazi attack on the Indian army in the Italian campaign , during World War II in an engrossing background tale of caste-ism while giving it a technically brilliant cinematic rendition. Sankalp Reddy explored submarine warfare in his directorial debut Ghazi (2017), based on
336-401: A Telugu person. He sent his son, Raghupathi Surya Prakash Naidu (R. S. Prakash) to study filmmaking in the studios of England , Germany , and United States . In 1921, they made Bhishma Pratigna , generally considered as the first Telugu feature film. Venkaiah Naidu produced the film, while R. S. Prakash directed and produced it along with playing the title character Bhishma . As
420-411: A few like Dangal (2016), M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016). "A pan-Indian film does not mean that actors from different languages come together. That's all part of it. A pan-Indian film means a story and emotion that connects to everyone irrespective of the language. While creating a story, I think 'If I switch off this dialogue portion, will the audience still connect to my movie?' Many times,
504-460: A folklore film hero into a star of social films. Missamma (1955), directed by L. V. Prasad , and adapted from two Bengali works, became a landmark in Telugu cinema. It was celebrated for its blend of humour, drama, and social commentary. Savitri emerged as a leading actress after this film. Likewise, Thodi Kodallu (1957) and Mangalya Balam (1959) were also adapted from Bengali novels. In
588-559: A long-lasting precedence of focusing exclusively on religious themes — Gajendra Moksham , Nandanar , and Matsyavataram —three of their most noted productions, centred on religious figures, parables, and morals. The first Telugu film with audible dialogue, Bhakta Prahlada , was directed by H. M. Reddy . Bhakta Prahlada was shot over 18 or 20 days at Imperial Studios, Bombay and was produced by Ardeshir Irani who also produced Alam Ara , India's first sound film . The film had an all-Telugu starcast featuring Sindhoori Krishna Rao as
672-485: A modern-day setting as opposed to mythological and folklore films. Later, more 'social films' i.e. films based on contemporary life and social issues, were made by filmmakers. Notable among them was Vandemataram (1939), touching on societal problems like the practice of dowry . Telugu films began to focus more on contemporary life, with 29 of the 96 films released between 1937 and 1947 featuring social themes. In 1938, Gudavalli Ramabrahmam has co-produced and directed
756-405: A new era of comedy in Telugu cinema, where his movies captivated audiences with their blend of humour and social commentary . "Before his movies, comedy was a small part of movies and comedians were sidekicks to the hero or villain. Jandhyala proved that comedy can itself be a full-length subject and achieved a great success in this endeavor." His films are well known as clean entertainers affable to
840-464: A regular practice by which films from Telugu cinema and Tamil cinema gained popularity in the Hindi speaking regions . Majority of these films were dubbed after few weeks or months of the original version release. Similarly, Hindi films were frequently dubbed in Telugu and Tamil languages, but didn't gain as much popularity in Telugu and Tamil speaking regions as Telugu/Tamil films received, except
924-406: A vital role during this era, with the double act of Relangi and Ramana Reddy becoming immensely popular. Their performances provided comic relief in several films. This era, marked by groundbreaking films, innovative storytelling, and international recognition, remains a golden chapter in the history of Telugu cinema. The Telugu film industry, commonly known as Tollywood, traces its origins to
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#17327902582671008-435: Is a term related to Indian cinema that originated with Telugu cinema as a mainstream commercial cinema appealing to audiences across the country with a spread to world markets. S. S. Rajamouli pioneered the pan-Indian films movement with duology of epic action films Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017), that changed the demography of Indian cinema. The term "pan-Indian film"
1092-491: Is married to Ramya Krishnan , a South Indian actress. Ramya Krishnan acted in two of his films; Sri Anjaneyam (in a guest role) and Chandralekha , prior to marriage. Krishna Vamsi is a huge a fan of Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry ; the films for which Sitarama Sastry wrote lyrics, which are directed by Krishna Vamsi, include Ninne Pelladatha, Gulabi, Sindhooram, Chandralekha, Murari, Khadgam, Chakram, Mahatma , and Paisa . Sastry adopted Krishna Vamsi, though not legally as per
1176-462: Is particularly revered for its innovative use of special effects , such as the first illusion of moonlight, showcasing the technical brilliance of the era. Mayabazar remains a classic, inspiring generations of filmmakers and continuing to captivate new audiences. In 2013, CNN-IBN included Mayabazar in its list of "100 greatest Indian films of all time," with the public voting it as the "greatest Indian film of all time." This period also continued
1260-463: Is the first Indian film depicting the Indian movie world. The film was directed by Y. V. Rao and scripted by Balijepalli Lakshmikantha Kavi , starring V. Nagayya . Rao subsequently made the sequel films Savithri and Sathyabhama (1941–42) casting thespian Sthanam Narasimha Rao . The outbreak of World War II and the subsequent resource scarcity caused the British Raj to impose a limit on
1344-590: Is used for a film that is simultaneously marketed and released in multiple languages across India – Telugu , Hindi , Tamil , Kannada and Malayalam . Such films make an attempt to appeal to the audiences across the country, cutting across the linguistic, regional and cultural barriers. Indian cinema is composed of various language film industries. Films are often remade in other languages, examples being Nuvvostanante Nenoddantana (2005, Telugu) and Chachi 420 (1997, Hindi). Films are also dubbed into other languages and released with localised titles either on
1428-706: The Erasing Borders Festival of Classical Dance, Indo-American Arts Council , New York, 2013. Experimental film Parampara has garnered the Platinum Award for Best Feature at the International Indonesian Movie Awards. 2018 biographical film Mahanati based on the life of veteran actress Savitri has garnered the "Equality in Cinema Award" at the 2018 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne . During
1512-559: The Raja of Challapalli , who produced Rojulu Marayi, acquired land in Hyderabad in March 1956 to set up a studio. In 1959, Maa Inti Mahalakshmi , the first Telugu film entirely filmed in Hyderabad, was released. Akkineni Nageswara Rao was one of the first prominent figures to move his film business entirely to Hyderabad, encouraging others to do the same and playing a crucial role in
1596-515: The Telugu language , widely spoken in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana . Based in Film Nagar , Hyderabad , Telugu cinema has become the largest film industry in India by box-office revenue as of 2021. Telugu films sold 23.3 crore (233 million) tickets in 2022, the highest among all Indian film industries. As of 2023, Andhra Pradesh has the highest number of movie screens in India. Since 1909, filmmaker Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu
1680-563: The United States . Speaking about the centenary of Indian cinema at the CII Media and Entertainment Summit 2012, filmmaker Shekhar Kapur said regional cinema is surpassing Hindi cinema in content and story, and cited Eega (2012) as an example. Kapur said he was impressed with its story and use of technology, and called it, "no less than a Hollywood superhero film". Shah Rukh Khan called Eega an "awesomely original" film and
1764-625: The comedy thriller , Chantabbai , the vigilante thriller , Kondaveeti Donga the first Telugu film to be released on a 70 mm 6-Track Stereophonic sound , the western thriller Kodama Simham , and the action thriller , Gang Leader , popularised genre films with the highest estimated footfall. He received the Padma Vibhushan , the second-highest civilian award, in 2024. Sekhar Kammula debuted with his National Award -winning film, Dollar Dreams (2000) featuring dialogue in both Telugu and English. Dollar Dreams explored
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#17327902582671848-702: The social problem film , Mala Pilla starring Kanchanamala . The film dealt with the crusade against untouchability, prevailing in pre-independent India. In 1939, he directed Raithu Bidda , starring thespian Bellary Raghava . The film was banned by the British administration in the region, for depicting the uprise of the peasantry among the Zamindar 's during the British raj . The success of these films gave an impetus to Y. V. Rao , B. N. Reddy and others to produce films on social themes. Viswa Mohini (1940)
1932-507: The "first legit Pan-Indian Superstar" in Indian cinema. Actors like Prabhas , Allu Arjun , Ram Charan and N. T. Rama Rao Jr. enjoy a nationwide popularity among the audiences after the release of their respective Pan-Indian films. RRR propelled Telugu cinema into the mainstream outside India, fuelling the growth of Pan-India movies. It received universal critical acclaim for its direction, screenwriting, cast performances, cinematography, soundtrack, action sequences and VFX . The film
2016-542: The 1950s, largely influenced by the formation of Andhra Pradesh in 1956. Sarathi Studios was established in Hyderabad in 1956, marking the beginning of this transition. It was the first film studio facility in Hyderabad. Before this, Hyderabad was primarily known for Hindi film releases. The success of Rojulu Marayi (1955), which ran for 100 days in Hyderabad, prompted the then Revenue Minister of Andhra Pradesh, K. V. Ranga Reddy to urge Telugu filmmakers to relocate to Hyderabad. In response, Yarlagadda Sivarama Prasad ,
2100-658: The 1990s, the Rayalaseema dialect was portrayed in films about the factional conflicts in the area, while the Telangana dialect, already having been pegged to villainous and comedic roles, saw an increase in this usage in reaction to the shift of the Telugu film production from Madras to Hyderabad. After the formation of the state of Telangana in 2014, Telangana culture gained more prominence, and more films were produced portraying Telangana culture, and dialect. Screenwriters such as Chandra Sekhar Yeleti experimented with
2184-479: The Gazette, but by the traditional Hindu method. National Film Award for Best Regional Film Nandi Award for Second Best Feature Film – Silver Nandi Award for Second Best Director Nandi Award for National Integrity Filmfare Best Director Award (Telugu) Telugu cinema Telugu cinema , also known as Tollywood , is the segment of Indian cinema dedicated to the production of motion pictures in
2268-680: The Royal Reel Award at the Canada International Film Festival . 2013 Social problem film , Naa Bangaaru Talli won Best Film award at the Detroit Trinity International Film Festival. Minugurulu (2014) about blind children received Best Indian Film at the "9th India International Children's Film Festival Bangalore ". 2013 Cultural film, O Friend, This Waiting! has received special mention at
2352-476: The Special Jury Award (Feature Film - Director) at the 46th National Film Awards . K. Raghavendra Rao explored devotional themes with Agni Putrudu (1987), Annamayya (1997), Sri Ramadasu (2006), Shirdi Sai (2012) and Om Namo Venkatesaya (2017) receiving various state honours. Singeetam Srinivasa Rao introduced science fiction to the Telugu screen with Aditya 369 (1991),
2436-479: The Telugu film industry produces over 300 films annually, contributing significantly to the region's economy and maintaining a prominent position in Indian cinema. The Prasads IMAX located in Hyderabad is one of the largest 3D IMAX screens, and the most attended cinema screen in the world. As per the CBFC report of 2014, the industry is placed first in India, in terms of films produced yearly. The industry holds
2520-453: The Telugu film industry to relocate from Madras to the new state capital, Hyderabad . Despite these calls, the industry remained in Madras, where studios were already established and actors and technicians were settled. One early response to the call for relocation was the establishment of Sarathi Studios in Hyderabad in 1956, although it initially struggled to attract filmmakers. Over time,
2604-414: The answer is a yes." — S. S. Rajamouli , the director of Baahubali duology and RRR In 2015, S. S. Rajamouli 's duology of epic action films Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017); that became huge critical and commercial success. Baahubali 2 became the highest grossing Indian film of all time. The film was released in various languages across
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2688-438: The best off-beat films of the year by various international juries. Paul Nicodemus of The Times of India cited Prashanth Varma 's super-hero film Hanu Man for merging elements of mythology with contemporary action, and offering a unique viewing experience in Indian cinema. Pan-Indian film is a term related to Indian cinema that originated with Telugu cinema as a mainstream commercial cinema appealing to audiences across
2772-497: The box office. In addition to mythological and social films, the period was marked by an increasing influence of world cinema and Bengali literature on Telugu filmmakers. The International Film Festival of India , initiated in 1952, exposed Indian filmmakers to global cinema, inspiring them to experiment with new storytelling techniques. Devadasu (1953), an adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay 's 1917 Bengali novel Devdas , transformed Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR) from
2856-427: The concept of Pan-Indian cinema always existed, and criticised the term as a new "coinage". Prabhas , who played the protagonist of Baahubali series, opined that the industry should make "Indian" films instead of "pan-Indian" films. Actor Siddharth echoed the same. He felt the term pan-Indian was a "very disrespectful word" as its use was limited to non-Hindi films. Writer-actor Adivi Sesh felt that "the word
2940-514: The conflict between American dreams and human feelings. The film re-introduced social realism to Telugu screen, and brought back its lost glory which until then was stuck in its run-of-the-mill commercial pot-boilers. Vanaja (2006) won several international awards including the first prize in the live-action feature film category at the Chicago International Children's Film Festival . Dream (2012), has garnered
3024-547: The country with a spread to world markets. S. S. Rajamouli pioneered the pan-Indian films movement with duology of epic action films Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017), that changed the face of Indian cinema. "Pan-India film" is both a style of cinema and a distribution strategy, designed to universally appeal to audiences across the country and simultaneously released in multiple languages. Film journalists and analysts, such as Baradwaj Rangan and Vishal Menon, have labelled Prabhas as
3108-463: The decade include Mayabazar (1957), Panduranga Mahatyam (1957), Suvarna Sundari (1957), Bhookailas (1958), Jayabheri (1959), Sri Venkateswara Mahatyam (1960), and Raja Makutam (1960). Among these, K. V. Reddy's Mayabazar stands as a landmark in Indian cinema, blending myth, fantasy, romance, and humour in a timeless narrative. The film excelled in various departments, including production design, music, and cinematography. It
3192-583: The early 1990s, Hyderabad had become the central hub for Telugu cinema, further strengthened by the development of large film studios like Ramoji Film City , a 1,600-acre integrated film studio complex, which holds the Guinness World Record as the largest film production facility in the world. In 2006, 245 Telugu films were produced, the highest in India. The influence of Telugu cinema extended beyond regional boundaries, with many successful films being remade in other Indian languages. As of 2022,
3276-802: The early 20th century in Madras (now Chennai), which was the capital of the Madras Presidency , a region that included Andhra. Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu , often regarded as the father of the Telugu film industry, was a pioneering figure who established Star of the East Films and the Glass Studio. The industry initially flourished in Madras, with major studios such as Vauhini Studios , founded by Moola Narayana Swamy and B. N. Reddy in 1948, and Prasad Studios, established by L. V. Prasad in 1956. The shift from Madras to Hyderabad began in
3360-464: The family audiences without any obscene language or double entendre . Aha Naa Pellanta! is considered one of the best comedy films in Telugu cinema. Ram Gopal Varma 's Siva , which attained cult status in Telugu cinema, is one of the first Telugu films produced after the migration of Telugu film industry from Madras to Hyderabad to feature characters speaking the Telangana dialect. Varma
3444-498: The film Ninne Pelladata , one of the highest grossing Telugu films of the time. He subsequently directed the critically acclaimed crime film , Sindhooram under his production house Andhra Talkies ; both the films won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu . In 2002, he ventured into Bollywood with Shakti: The Power , a remake of his own 1998 Telugu cult classic Antahpuram . Krishna Vamsi
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3528-479: The film dealt with exploratory dystopian and apocalyptic themes. The edge of the seat thriller had characters which stayed human, inconsistent and insecure. The film's narrative takes the audience into the post apocalyptic experience through time travel, as well as folklore generation of 1500 CE, which including a romantic backstory, the "Time Machine" made it a brilliant work of fiction. Jandhyala popularly known as "Hasya Brahma" ( Brahma of comedy), ushered
3612-484: The film song. Playback singers like Ghantasala, Rao Balasaraswathi Devi , P. Leela , Jikki , P. B. Srinivas and P. Suseela emerged as prominent voices, defining the musical landscape of the era. This period also saw the rise of notable dance choreographers like Pasumarthi Krishnamurthy and Vempati Peda Satyam, who enhanced the artistic quality of Telugu cinema. The 1950s also saw the formation of Andhra State in 1953 and Andhra Pradesh in 1956 leading to calls for
3696-746: The film was also showcased in the United States . Nartanasala (1963) won three awards at the third Afro-Asian Film Festival in Jakarta . K. V. Reddy's Donga Ramudu (1955) was archived in the curriculum of the Film and Television Institute of India , and Nammina Bantu (1960) received critical acclaim at the San Sebastián International Film Festival . Films like Ummadi Kutumbam (1967), Sudigundalu (1968), and Bapu 's Sakshi (1967) were showcased at various international film festivals, highlighting
3780-626: The first Telugu film exhibitor and producer, Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu is regarded as the 'Father of Telugu cinema'. From 1921 to 1931 about a dozen feature films were made by Telugu people . C. Pullayya made a three- reel short film, Markandeya (1926 or 1931) at his house in Kakinada . In 1921, the first cinema hall in Andhra , Maruthi Cinema was established in Vijayawada by Pothina Srinivasa Rao. Y. V. Rao and R. S. Prakash established
3864-472: The first ever permanent cinema theatre in Madras and all of South India . He later constructed the Crown Theatre and Globe Theatre. In his theatres, he screened American and European films as well as silent films made in various parts of India. In 1919, he started a film production company called 'Star of the East Films' also called 'Glass Studio', the first production company established by
3948-606: The first female producer of Telugu film industry. The first film studio in Andhra , Durga Cinetone, was built in 1936 by Nidamarthi Surayya in Rajahmundry . Sampurna Ramayanam (1936) was the first film produced by the studio relying mostly on local talent. In 1937, another studio called Andhra Cinetone was built in Visakhapatnam . However, both the studios were short-lived. Early Telugu silent films and talkies were deeply influenced by stage performances, continuing
4032-598: The first major Pan-Indian film from Kannada cinema . Success of other films like 2.0 (2018), Saaho (2019), Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy (2019) made Pan-Indian films widespread to other major Indian film industries. Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea (2021) is the first major Pan-Indian film from Malayalam cinema . Following the success of the Telugu films Pushpa: The Rise (2021) and RRR (2022), Rahul Devulapalli of The Week identified "Content, marketing, [and] indulgent overseas audience" have led to
4116-508: The formation of Andhra Pradesh opened new markets for Telugu films in the Telangana region, laying the groundwork for the industry's eventual expansion into Hyderabad. During this golden era, several Telugu films received international recognition. Malliswari (1951), a historical romance film directed by B. N. Reddy , was screened at the 1952 Peking film festival, making it the first Telugu film to be screened in China . A 16 mm print of
4200-456: The global reach of Telugu cinema. Vijaya Productions, led by Nagi Reddi and Chakrapani , became the most successful production company of the era. Their collaborative approach brought together some of the best talents in the industry, resulting in a string of hits that defined the golden age of Telugu cinema. Vijaya Productions operated like a Hollywood studio , with staff hired on monthly salaries, and working regular hours. Comedy also played
4284-611: The industry's relocation. He insisted on working in films produced in Andhra Pradesh, except for those made at Vauhini and Venus Studios in Madras. In 1976, the Andhra Pradesh government allocated 22 acres of land in Banjara Hills , Hyderabad, to Akkineni Nageswara Rao for the establishment of a film studio. This led to the founding of Annapurna Studios in 1976. By the 1970s and 1980s, most production houses had moved to Andhra Pradesh or opened branch offices there. By
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#17327902582674368-456: The largest film schools in India. The Telugu states consist of approximately 2800 theatres, the largest number of cinema halls of any state in India. Being commercially consistent, Telugu cinema had its influence over commercial cinema in India. The 1992 film Gharana Mogudu is the first Telugu film to gross over ₹ 10 crore at the box office. Produced on a shoestring budget of ₹ 1.2 crore, 2000 film Nuvve Kavali became sleeper hit of
4452-569: The late 1940s and 1950s. These studios played a crucial role in the development of Telugu cinema, contributing to the production of over 300 films between 1950 and 1960. Many Telugu-Tamil bilinguals were made during this period. During this era, the Telugu film industry became one of the largest producers of folklore , fantasy , and mythological films. Directors like K. V. Reddy and B. Vittalacharya pioneered these genres, creating films that captivated audiences with their imaginative storytelling. As demand for films grew, filmmakers recognised
4536-875: The late 1940s and early 1950s, many members of the Praja Natya Mandali and Abhyudaya Rachayithala Sangham, both affiliated with the Communist Party, transitioned into the film industry, bringing with them progressive ideas that subtly influenced the industry, though they eventually adapted to the commercial demands of mainstream cinema. During the 1950s and 1960s, Telugu film songs entered a golden era marked by exceptional lyricism, orchestration, and technological advancements. Prominent lyricists like Samudrala Sr. , Pingali Nagendra Rao , Devulapalli Krishna Sastry , and Kosaraju Raghavayya , alongside composers like Saluri Rajeswara Rao , Ghantasala , T. V. Raju , Pendyala , and Master Venu , set new standards for
4620-586: The late 1990s. It was screened for 200 days in 20 screens grossing over ₹ 20 crore . Dasari Narayana Rao directed the most number of films in the Telugu language, exploring themes such as aesthestics in Meghasandesam (1982), Battle of Bobbili in the biographical war film Tandra Paparayudu (1986), alternate history with Sardar Papa Rayudu (1980), and gender discrimination in Kante Koothurne Kanu (1998) for which he received
4704-560: The lead actors, which bought a rather fictional storyline a sense of authenticity at a time when the industry was being filled with unnecessary commercial fillers. It went on to gather a cult following in south India, with a dubbed Hindi version titled Hairaan released to positive reports from Bollywood critics, the Ann Arbor Film Festival , and the Fribourg Festival . Chiranjeevi 's works such as
4788-535: The mysterious altercation between PNS Ghazi and INS Karanj during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 . Indo-Asian News Service called new-generation film maker Sandeep Vanga 's Arjun Reddy the "most original, experimental work to come out of Telugu cinema in a long time", and said the protagonist's (played by Vijay Deverakonda ) "rise, fall and rise ... is nothing short of poetic and heart wrenching". Actor-dancer Allu Arjun produced and acted in
4872-564: The mythological Sri Seeta Rama Jananam (1944) under his home production, Prathiba Picture, marking Akkineni Nageswara Rao 's debut in a lead role. The 1950s and 1960s are often regarded as the golden age of Telugu cinema. This era witnessed significant advances in production quality, the establishment of iconic studios, and the rise of influential filmmakers who shaped the industry. Prominent production houses such as Vijaya Productions , Vauhini Studios , Bharani Pictures , Prasad Art Pictures , and Annapurna Pictures were established during
4956-509: The nationwide popularity of Telugu actors. Baahubali 2 (2017) won the Saturn Award for Best International Film , while RRR (2022) became the first Indian feature film to win an Academy Award and received various international accolades, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for the song " Naatu Naatu " and a Critics' Choice Award for Best Foreign Language Film . From its inception, Telugu cinema has been renowned as
5040-748: The off beat film Aithe (2003) with a caption "all movies are not the same". Aithe was made on a shoestring budget of about 1.5 crores and went on to collect more than 6 crores. After almost two years he delivered another thriller Anukokunda Oka Roju (2005) both films were a refreshing change of pace to the audiences, produced by Gangaraju Gunnam . Aithe was remade in Tamil as Naam (2003) and in Malayalam as Wanted (2004). Mohana Krishna Indraganti explored themes of chastity and adultery in his 2004 literary adaptation Grahanam , based on Dosha Gunam written by social critic G. V. Chalam . The film
5124-519: The potential to remake earlier productions with enhanced cinematic techniques. Many mythological films originally made in the early talkie era, which featured actors from drama troupes and were limited by the technical constraints of the time, were reimagined in this era with improved technologies. Pathala Bhairavi (1951) emerged as the most successful folklore film of the decade and turned its lead actors, N. T. Rama Rao and S. V. Ranga Rao , into stars. Other notable mythological and folklore films from
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#17327902582675208-440: The preeminent centre of Hindu mythological films in India. Today, it is also recognised for its advanced technical crafts, particularly in visual effects and cinematography , making it one of the most sophisticated in Indian cinema. Telugu cinema has produced some of India's most expensive and highest-grossing films , including Baahubali 2 (2017), which holds the record as the highest-grossing film of all time in India. Over
5292-468: The producer nor the director of these two films were Telugus. In 1933, Sati Savitri directed by C. Pullayya received an honorary diploma at the 2nd Venice Film Festival . In the same year, Pruthvi Putra , based on the story of Narakasura was released. It starred Kalyanam Raghuramayya and was produced by Pothina Srinivasa Rao, who had previously built the first cinema hall in Andhra in 1921. This
5376-459: The rise of pan-Indian films from Telugu cinema. Actors like Prabhas , Yash , Allu Arjun , Ram Charan , and N. T. Rama Rao Jr. enjoyed nationwide popularity among the audiences after the release of their respective Pan-Indian films. Film critics , journalists and analysts, such as Baradwaj Rangan and Vishal Menon, have labelled Prabhas as the "First legit Pan-Indian Superstar". India Today states Prabhas as "a flagbearer of introducing
5460-449: The rise of star-driven commercial films, technological advancements, and the development of major studios like Ramoji Film City , which holds the Guinness World Record as the largest film studio complex in the world. The 2010s marked a new era for Telugu cinema as a pioneer of the pan-Indian film movement, expanding its reach across India and globally. This established the industry as a major force in Indian and world cinema and boosted
5544-404: The same release date or at a later date. Films such as Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Enthiran , were dubbed in other Indian languages and were released along with their original versions. According to The Times of India , the first pan-Indian film from Kannada cinema is Mahishasura Mardini released in 1959. It was dubbed and released in seven other languages. But, no other film
5628-502: The short film, I Am That Change (2014), to spread awareness on individual social responsibility. The movie was directed by Sukumar , which was screened in theatres across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on Indian Independence day, 2014. Adivi Sesh scripted the Neo-noir Kshanam (2016), based on a real life incident of a missing three-year-old girl. Sesh followed it up writing R.A.W. thriller Goodachari (2018), and
5712-433: The term: "I hate referring to it as 'pan-Indian', it sounds like a frying pan. We just mean it is a film that can travel into all the Indian languages". Speaking with PTI , Dulquer Salmaan said: "The word pan-India really irks me. I just don't like hearing it. I love that there is so much exchange of talent happening in cinema, it's great, but we are one country. I don't think anyone says pan-America." Kamal Haasan felt
5796-469: The titular Prahlada , Munipalle Subbayya as Hiranyakasyapa , and Surabhi Kamalabai as Leelavathy. Bhakta Prahlada was completed on 15 September 1931, which henceforth became known as "Telugu Film Day" to commemorate its completion. Popularly known as talkies , films with sound quickly grew in number and popularity. In 1932, Sagar Movietone produced Sri Rama Paduka Pattabhishekam and Sakunthala , both directed by Sarvottam Badami . Neither
5880-423: The traditions of theatre onto the screen. These films often retained the same scripts, dialogues, and background settings as their stage counterparts. By 1936, the mass appeal of film allowed directors to move away from religious and mythological themes. That year, under the direction of Kruthiventi Nageswara Rao, Prema Vijayam , a film with a contemporary setting, was released. It was the first Telugu film with
5964-493: The trend of Pan India films in the nation". Pan-Indian films also employ actors from different language industry to increase their visibility and bring a universal appeal. In an interview with Film Companion , filmmaker Karan Johar said: "Pan-India is a phenomenon we cannot diminish or dilute." Several actors, filmmakers and critics have criticise the term Pan Indian film . In an interview with Deadline Hollywood , actor N. T. Rama Rao Jr expressed his disapproval for
6048-442: The trend of social films, which began in the late 1930s, focusing on contemporary issues and everyday life rather than mythology and fantasy. Notable social films from the decade included Pelli Chesi Choodu (1952), Puttillu (1953), Devadasu (1953), Pedda Manushulu (1954), Missamma (1955), Ardhangi (1955), Rojulu Marayi (1955), Donga Ramudu (1955), and Thodi Kodallu (1957), many of which performed well at
6132-501: The use of filmstrip in 1943 to 11,000 feet, a sharp reduction from the 20,000 feet that had been common till then. As a result, the number of films produced during the war was substantially lower than in previous years. Nonetheless, before the ban, an important shift occurred in the industry: Independent studios formed, actors and actresses were signed to contracts limiting whom they could work for, and films moved from social themes to folklore legends. Ghantasala Balaramayya , has directed
6216-497: The war docudrama Major (2022). Cinema Bandi (2022) scripted and directed by Praveen Kandregula, and produced by film making duo Raj and D. K. ; explored the theme of how a lost camera fuels dreams in a Telugu hamlet, winning the Jury Special Mention at the 53rd IFFI . Venu Yeldandi explored slice of life story from rural Telangana with Balagam (2023) hitting the right chords to be considered one of
6300-572: The world. Filmmakers started a new film movement, that is, rather than remaking the same film in various languages, they are dubbing the same film in various languages and releasing simultaneously. Srivatsan S of The Hindu wrote that Telugu cinema has excelled in marketing Pan-Indian films. It primarily employed two strategies – promoting the film outside their home territory and collaborating with other regional stars for more visibility. Kannada film K.G.F: Chapter 1 (2018) directed by Prashanth Neel also released in five languages, thereby becoming
6384-502: The years, Telugu filmmakers have also ventured into parallel and arthouse cinema. Films like Daasi (1988), Thilaadanam (2000), and Vanaja (2006), among others, received acclaim at major international film festivals such as Venice , Berlin , Karlovy Vary , Moscow , and Busan . Additionally, ten Telugu films have been featured in CNN-IBN 's list of the "100 Greatest Indian Films of All Time." Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu
6468-606: Was a photographer and photographic studio owner in Madras who was drawn into filmmaking . Since 1909, he was involved in producing short films . He shot 12 three-minute-long short films and exhibited them in Victoria Public Hall , Madras . He also travelled to Bangalore , Vijayawada , Sri Lanka , Rangoon and Pegu to exhibit his films. In c. 1909-10 , he established a tent house called Esplanade in Madras to exhibit his films. In c. 1912-14 , he established Gaiety Theatre on Mount Road ,
6552-630: Was considered one of the ten best films of the year by the National Board of Review , making it only the seventh non-English language film ever to make it to the list. The song " Naatu Naatu " won the Oscar for Best Original Song at the 95th Academy Awards , making it the first song from an Indian film, as well as the first from an Asian film, to win in this category. This made the film the first Indian film by an Indian production to win an Academy Award. Pan-Indian film Pan-Indian film
6636-520: Was credited with the introduction of steadicams and new sound recording techniques in Telugu films. Within a year of the film's release, more than ten steadicams were imported into India. Siva attracted the young audience during its theatrical run, and its success encouraged filmmakers to explore a variety of themes and make experimental Telugu films. Subsequently, Varma introduced road movie and film-noir to Indian screen with Kshana Kshanam . Varma experimented with close-to-life performances by
6720-412: Was directed by H. M. Reddy . The 1950s and 1960s are considered the golden age of Telugu cinema, featuring enhanced production quality, influential filmmakers, and notable studios, resulting in a variety of films that were both popular and critically acclaimed. The industry, initially based in Madras , began shifting to Hyderabad in the 1970s, completing the transition by the 1990s. This period also saw
6804-507: Was involved in producing short films and exhibiting them in different regions of South Asia. He established the first Indian-owned cinema halls in South India . In 1921, he produced the silent film , Bhishma Pratigna , generally considered to be the first Telugu feature film . As the first Telugu film producer and exhibitor, Naidu is regarded as the 'Father of Telugu cinema'. The first Telugu talkie film , Bhakta Prahlada (1932)
6888-468: Was released in more than four languages, since then. Indian Cinema industries often remake each others works, Between 2000 and 2019, one in every three successful films made in Hindi was either a remake or part of a series. And most of the star actors, have starred in the hit remakes of South Indian films. Since 2010s, dubbing and telecasting of South Indian films (primarily Telugu and Tamil) in Hindi became
6972-502: Was shot with a digital camera on a modest budget of approximately ₹ 8 lakh, with artists and technicians reportedly working without any remuneration. B. Anuradha of Rediff.com noted, "In this offbeat film, Indraganti upholds the tirade against chauvinists who accuse a noble lady of infidelity, ignoring her denials with contempt". The film was featured at the Independent South Asian Film Festival in
7056-409: Was the first Telugu talkie entirely financed by Telugu people. In 1934, the industry saw its first major commercial success with Lava Kusa . Directed by C. Pullayya and starring Parupalli Subbarao and Sriranjani , the film attracted unprecedented numbers of viewers to theatres and thrust the young industry into mainstream culture. Dasari Kotiratnam produced Sati Anasuya in 1935 and became
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