If you’re looking for some timeless Telugu films to watch, check out these five classic movies that still capture hearts today.
Mayabazar (1957)
“Mayabazar,” meaning “Market of Illusions,” is one of the earliest mythological films in Telugu cinema. Directed by K.V. Reddy, the movie features legendary actors such as N.T. Rama Rao, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and S.V. Ranga Rao. Based on a chapter from the Mahabharata, the film includes characters like Lord Krishna and Abhimanyu. It remains a favorite among many viewers.
Pathala Bhairavi (1951)
Another notable film is “Pathala Bhairavi,” a fantasy directed by K.V. Reddy. Starring N.T. Rama Rao, S.V. Ranga Rao, and K. Malathi, it tells two interwoven stories: one about a gardener’s son who needs to amass wealth to marry, and another about a sorcerer who must make a sacrifice to fulfill his desires.
Sankarabharanam (1980)
“Sankarabharanam,” directed by K. Vishwanath, is a musical drama that blends classical and modern music. Starring J.V. Somayajulu and Manju Bhargavi, the film enjoyed a long run in theaters and won several awards, including four National Awards and seven Nandi Awards.
Gundamma Katha (1962)
This comedy-drama, directed by Kamalakara Kameswara Rao, is loosely based on Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.” Featuring Suryakantham, N.T. Rama Rao, and Akkineni Nageswara Rao, the film is a remake of the Kannada movie “Mane Thumbida Hennu.”
Malliswari (1951)
“Malliswari,” produced and directed by B.N. Reddy, is a historical romance starring N.T. Rama Rao and Bhanumathi. The story revolves around Malliswari, who loves Nagaraju but faces separation due to her mother’s greed. The film was even showcased at the Peking Film Festival in 1953.