Uppalapati Venkata Krishnam Raju (20 January 1940 – 11 September 2022) was an Indian actor and politician. He was known for his works in
Telugu cinema
Telugu cinema, also known as Tollywood, is the segment of Indian cinema dedicated to the production of motion pictures in the Telugu language, widely spoken in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Telugu cinema is based in Film Nagar, ...
and was widely known as "''Rebel Star''" for his rebellious acting style. He was also the winner of the inaugural
Nandi Award for Best Actor
The Nandi Award for Best Actor was commissioned by the Nandi Awards committee in 1977. The winner is awarded a "Silver Nandi", "Sri Rajendra Prasad Gold Medal", cash award and a commendation certificate. Venkatesh has won the most Best Actor awa ...
. Krishnam Raju starred in more than 183 feature films in his career. He made his film debut with the 1966 film ''
Chilaka Gorinka
Chilaka Gorinka is a 1966 Indian Telugu-language film produced and directed by K. Pratyagatma. The film won the Nandi Award for Best Feature Film from the government of Andhra Pradesh. Sri Sri wrote the lyrics for the film, while S. Rajeswar ...
'' produced and directed by
K. Pratyagatma
K. Pratyagatma (born Kolli Kotayya Pratyagatma), also known as K. P. Atma (b: 31 October 1925 - d: 8 June 2001) was an Indian film journalist, director and producer known for his works in Telugu and Hindi cinema. He has garnered three Nationa ...
. Krishnam Raju had won five
Filmfare Awards South and three state
Nandi Awards
The Nandi Awards are the awards that recognise the excellence in Telugu cinema, Telugu theatre and Telugu television, and Lifetime achievements in Indian cinema. Presented annually by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, the award is named after ...
. Krishnam Raju was also an active
politician
A politician is a person active in party politics, or a person holding or seeking an elected office in government. Politicians propose, support, reject and create laws that govern the land and by an extension of its people. Broadly speaking ...
.
Krishnam Raju acted in several successful films such as ''
Jeevana Tarangalu
''Jeevana Tarangalu'' () is a 1973 Indian Telugu-language drama film directed by T. Rama Rao. The film stars Sobhan Babu, Krishnam Raju, Vanisri, Chandramohan, and Lakshmi. It is based on a novel by Yaddanapudi Sulochana Rani, and won three F ...
'' (1973), ''
Krishnaveni'' (1974), ''
Bhakta Kannappa
''Bhakta Kannappa'' () is a 1976 Indian Telugu-language film directed by Bapu. The film is a remake of 1954 Kannada movie '' Bedara Kannappa'' starring Rajkumar which was based on the life of Shaiva devotee, Kannappa Nayanar.
Credits
Cast
* ...
'' (1976), ''
Amara Deepam'' (1977), ''
Sati Savitri'' (1978), ''
Katakatala Rudrayya
''Katakatala Rudrayya'' is a 1978 Indian Telugu-language film written and directed by Dasari Narayana Rao. It stars Krishnam Raju, Jayasudha, Ramakrishna and Jayachitra. The film hasmusic composed by J. V. Raghavulu. It is remade in Tamil a ...
'' (1978), ''
Mana Voori Pandavulu'' (1978), ''
Rangoon Rowdy
''Rangoon Rowdy'' is a 1979 Telugu drama film directed by Dasari Narayana Rao and produced by Vadde Sobhanadri under Vijaya Madhavi Pictures. The film was presented by Vadde Kishore. The film stars Mahanati Savitri, Krishnam Raju, Jaya Prada, M ...
'' (1979), ''
Sri Vinayaka Vijayamu
''Sri Vinayaka Vijayamu'' is a 1979 Telugu-language Hindu mythological film directed by Kamalakara Kameswara Rao and produced by Jagarlamudi Radhakrishna Murthy under Jaganmatha Arts. The film stars Krishnam Raju, Rama Krishna, Vanisri, M. G. V. ...
'' (1979), ''
Sita Ramulu
Sita Ramulu is a 1980 Telugu-language drama film directed by Dasari Narayana Rao starring Krishnam Raju, Jaya Prada and Mohan Babu. The music was composed by Chellapilla Satyam. The song "Toli Sandhya Velalo" is a chartbuster and is remembered ...
'' (1980), ''Taxi Driver'' (1981), ''
Trisulam'' (1982), ''
Dharmaatmudu
''Dharmaatmudu'' () is a 1983 Indian Telugu-language drama film directed by Bairisetty Bhaskara Rao and produced by K. Kesava Rao. The film stars Krishnam Raju and Jayasudha. The film had musical score by Chellapilla Satyam. It was remade in Tam ...
'' (1983), ''
Bobbili Brahmanna'' (1984), ''
Tandra Paprayudu'' (1986), ''Marana Sasanam'' (1987), ''
Viswanatha Nayakudu
''Viswanatha Nayakudu'' is a 1987 Telugu historical film directed by Dasari Narayana Rao. The film won four Nandi Awards.
Plot
The story is based on an Indian historical event during the 16th century. It narrates the victory of Viswanatha Naya ...
'' (1987), ''
Antima Theerpu'' (1988), ''
Bava Bavamaridi'' (1993), ''
Palnati Pourusham
''Palnati Pourusham'' () is a 1994 Indian Telugu-language film directed by Muthyala Subbaiah. It is a remake of the 1993 Tamil film ''Kizhakku Cheemayile''. The film was released on 29 July 1994.
Plot
A brother and sister share a close bond w ...
'' (1994), ''
Billa Billa may refer to:
Films
*Billa (1980 film), ''Billa'' (1980 film), 1980 Indian Tamil film
*Billa (2002 film), ''Billa'' (2002 film), 2002 Pakistani Punjabi film
*Billa (2007 film), ''Billa'' (2007 film), 2007 Indian Tamil film, remake of ''Bil ...
'' (2009), ''
Rebel
A rebel is a participant in a rebellion.
Rebel or rebels may also refer to:
People
* Rebel (given name)
* Rebel (surname)
* Patriot (American Revolution), during the American Revolution
* American Southerners, as a form of self-identification; ...
'' (2012), ''
Rudrama Devi
Rudrama Devi, also Maharani Rudramma Devi, was a queen of the Kakatiya dynasty in the Deccan Plateau from 1263 to 1289 (or 1295) until her death. She was among the women to rule as monarchs in India and promoted a male image in order to do so ...
'' (2015).
In the late 1990s, he became active in politics. He joined
Bharatiya Janata Party
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP; ; ) is a political party in India, and one of the two major Indian political parties alongside the Indian National Congress. Since 2014, it has been the ruling political party in India under Narendra Mod ...
and was elected to the 12th and 13th
Lok Sabha
The Lok Sabha, constitutionally the House of the People, is the lower house of India's bicameral Parliament, with the upper house being the Rajya Sabha. Members of the Lok Sabha are elected by an adult universal suffrage and a first-p ...
from
Kakinada
Kakinada ( formerly called Kakinandiwada, Coringa, and Cocanada; ) is the sixth largest city of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and serves as the district headquarters of the Kakinada District. It lies on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. J. ...
and
Narasapuram
Narasapuram, or Narsapur, is a city in West Godavari district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a municipality and mandal headquarters of Narasapuram mandal in Narasapuram revenue division. The city is situated on the banks of the V ...
constituencies. He served as a
Minister of State
Minister of State is a title borne by politicians in certain countries governed under a parliamentary system. In some countries a Minister of State is a Junior Minister of government, who is assigned to assist a specific Cabinet Minister. In ...
for the
Ministry of External Affairs in the
third Vajpayee Ministry
Atal Bihari Vajpayee was sworn in as Prime Minister of India for third time on 13 October 1999. He headed his Third Vajpayee Ministry. Here is the list of ministers in his ministry.
Cabinet ministers
...
from 1999 to 2004. In March 2009, he joined
Praja Rajyam Party
The Praja Rajyam Party was a political party in India.
Formation
The first public meeting was held by Chiranjeevi on 26 August 2008, at Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. He addressed a gathering of about a million people and announced the party name ...
, founded by
Chiranjeevi
Chiranjeevi (born Konidela Sivasankara Varaprasad; 22 August 1955) is an Indian actor, film producer and former politician, who predominantly works in Telugu cinema. Chiranjeevi starred in over 150 feature films in Telugu, as well as some fil ...
. In the
2009 general elections, he contested the
MP seat from the
Rajahmundry
Rajahmundry, officially known as Rajamahendravaram, is a city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and District headquarters of East Godavari district. It is the sixth most populated city in the state. During British rule, the District of Rajah ...
constituency and lost.
Personal life
Uppalapati Venkata Krishnam Raju was born in
Mogalthur
Mogalturru is a village in West Godavari district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It was a princely state during the British rule.
Geography
Mogalturru is located at . It has an average elevation of 1 meter (6 feet). NH 214A pass ...
,
West Godavari district, on 20 January 1940, to Uppalapati Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Raju.
He completed his early education at Government Boys School in Mogalthur and later at
Taylor's High School, in
Narasapuram
Narasapuram, or Narsapur, is a city in West Godavari district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a municipality and mandal headquarters of Narasapuram mandal in Narasapuram revenue division. The city is situated on the banks of the V ...
,
Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh (, abbr. AP) is a state in the south-eastern coastal region of India. It is the seventh-largest state by area covering an area of and tenth-most populous state with 49,386,799 inhabitants. It is bordered by Telangana to the ...
. He graduated with a
B.Com
A Bachelor of Commerce (abbreviated BComm or BCom; also, ''baccalaureates commercii'') is an undergraduate degree in business, usually awarded in Canada, Australia, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Ireland, New Zealand, Ghana, South Africa, Myanma ...
, from
Badruka College, in
Hyderabad
Hyderabad ( ; , ) is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Telangana and the ''de jure'' capital of Andhra Pradesh. It occupies on the Deccan Plateau along the banks of the Musi River, in the northern part of Southern India ...
,
Telangana
Telangana (; , ) is a state in India situated on the south-central stretch of the Indian peninsula on the high Deccan Plateau. It is the eleventh-largest state and the twelfth-most populated state in India with a geographical area of and 3 ...
. Krishnam Raju was first married to Sitadevi, who passed away. He married Syamaladevi, on 1996, with whom he had three daughters.
Film producer,
Uppalapati Surya Narayana Raju, was his younger brother and actor
Prabhas
Uppalapati Venkata Suryanarayana Prabhas Raju (born 23 October 1979), known mononymously as Prabhas (), is an Indian actor who works predominantly in Telugu cinema. One of the highest-paid actors in Indian cinema, Prabhas has featured in '' F ...
' father. Prabhas is his nephew. Another nephew of his, Siddharth Rajkumar, made his acting debut with ''
Keratam
''Keratam'' is a 2011 Indian Telugu film directed by Gautham Patnaik and produced by S. V. Babu. The film was simultaneously made in Tamil as ''Yuvan'' by director R. N. Saran. The film stars Siddharth Rajkumar, Aishwarya Devan and Rakul Preet ...
'' (2011). Krishnam Raju worked as a journalist for the
Andhra Ratna
Duggirala Gopalakrishnayya ( te, దుగ్గిరాల గోపాలకృష్ణయ్య), (2 June 1889 – 10 June 1928) was an Indian freedom fighter and member of the Indian National Congress from the southern Indian state of Andh ...
. He was awarded the second best photographer at the state level. He was fond of cameras and had a collection of cameras. He was the owner of
Gopi Krishna Movies. At a later age, he suffered from chronic heart rhythm disorder, heart dysfunction,
diabetes mellitus
Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by a high blood sugar level ( hyperglycemia) over a prolonged period of time. Symptoms often include frequent urination, increased thirst and increased ...
, coronary heart disease, chronic lung disease, chronic kidney disease and
chronic bronchitis
Bronchitis is inflammation of the bronchi (large and medium-sized airways) in the lungs that causes coughing. Bronchitis usually begins as an infection in the nose, ears, throat, or sinuses. The infection then makes its way down to the bronchi. ...
on nebulized inhalers.
Career
Debut and career up to 1967
Krishnam Raju entered
Tollywood in 1966 with the film ''
Chilaka Gorinka
Chilaka Gorinka is a 1966 Indian Telugu-language film produced and directed by K. Pratyagatma. The film won the Nandi Award for Best Feature Film from the government of Andhra Pradesh. Sri Sri wrote the lyrics for the film, while S. Rajeswar ...
'' directed by
Kotayya Pratyagatma
K. Pratyagatma (born Kolli Kotayya Pratyagatma), also known as K. P. Atma (b: 31 October 1925 - d: 8 June 2001) was an Indian film journalist, director and producer known for his works in Telugu and Hindi cinema. He has garnered three Nationa ...
alongside
Krishna Kumari. The film won
Nandi Award for Best Feature Film - Silver for that year, however, the film did not produce the expected results for Raju.
Later he acted in the mythological film ''
Sri Krishnavataram'' (1967) which also stars
N. T. Rama Rao
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (28 May 1923 – 18 January 1996), often referred to by his initials NTR, was an Indian actor, filmmaker and politician who served as List of Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh fo ...
. In 1968, he appeared in ''
Nenante Nene
''Nenante Nene'' () is a 1968 Indian Telugu-language masala film directed by V. Ramachandra Rao and produced by P. N. Babji. A remake of the 1967 Tamil film ''Naan'', it stars Krishna, Kanchana, Krishnam Raju and Nagabhushanam. The film focuse ...
''. He was at first reluctant to act in the film given the role is of an antagonist and that he debuted in films in a protagonist role. Upon being advised by his peers and co-actors to gain exposure to a diversified character, he took on the role. The film turned out successful. He subsequently received several offers for antagonist roles following the critical praise he garnered in the role. He took upon a few films and later returned to protagonist roles.
He acted in many films with the established actors N. T. Rama Rao and
Akkineni Nageswara Rao
Akkineni Nageswara Rao (20 September 1923 – 22 January 2014), widely known as ANR, was an Indian actor and producer, known for his works majorly in Telugu cinema. He starred in many landmark films in his seventy five-year career, and became on ...
. He also acted in many films with the established actresses Krishna Kumari,
Rajasulochana
Chittajallu Rajeevalochana (15 August 1935 – 5 March 2013), better known as Rajasulochana, was an Indian classical dancer and actress. She has acted in more than 300 Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam and Hindi language films.
Early life
She w ...
,
Jamuna, and
Kanchana.
Breakthrough: 1968–1973
Krishnam Raju acted alongside
Kanchana in ''
Nenante Nene
''Nenante Nene'' () is a 1968 Indian Telugu-language masala film directed by V. Ramachandra Rao and produced by P. N. Babji. A remake of the 1967 Tamil film ''Naan'', it stars Krishna, Kanchana, Krishnam Raju and Nagabhushanam. The film focuse ...
'' (1968) and set the trend of handsome villains. Later, he acted in ''Bhale Abbayilu'' (1969), the Telugu remake of
Yash Chopra
Yash Raj Chopra (27 September 1932 21 October 2012) was an Indian film director and film producer who worked in Hindi cinema. The founding chairman of the film production and distribution company Yash Raj Films, Chopra was the recipient of ...
's 1965 film ''
Waqt''. Later he acted in films such as ''
Buddhimantudu'' (1969), ''
Manushulu Marali
''Manushulu Marali'' is a 1969 Indian Telugu-language drama film directed by V. Madhusudhana Rao, starring Shoban Babu and Sharada. The film was a remake of the Malayalam film '' Thulabharam''.
Cast
* Sobhan Babu
* Sharada
* Haranath
* Ka ...
'' (1969), ''Malli Pelli'' (1970), and ''Jai Jawan (''1970). He acted opposite Bollywood actress
Rekha
Bhanurekha Ganesan (born 10 October 1954), better known by her stage name Rekha, is an Indian actress who appears predominantly in Hindi films. Acknowledged as one of the finest actresses in Indian cinema, she has starred in more than 180 fi ...
in ''Amma Kosam'' (1970) which was her first film as an actress. Later he acted in films such as ''Anuradha'', ''Bhagyavantudu'' ''(''1971), and ''Bangaaru Talli'' (1971), the remake of the critically acclaimed 1957 Hindi film ''
Mother India
''Mother India'' is a 1957 Indian epic drama film, directed by Mehboob Khan and starring Nargis, Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar and Raaj Kumar. A remake of Khan's earlier film '' Aurat'' (1940), it is the story of a poverty-stricken village wom ...
''. Later he acted in films such as ''Muhammad- bin-Tughluq'' (1972) portraying the role of
Islamic scholar
In Islam, the ''ulama'' (; ar, علماء ', singular ', "scholar", literally "the learned ones", also spelled ''ulema''; feminine: ''alimah'' ingularand ''aalimath'' lural are the guardians, transmitters, and interpreters of religious ...
Ibn Battuta, ''Raj Mahal'' (1972), ''Hantakulu Devaantakulu'' (1972) opposite
Rajasulochana
Chittajallu Rajeevalochana (15 August 1935 – 5 March 2013), better known as Rajasulochana, was an Indian classical dancer and actress. She has acted in more than 300 Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam and Hindi language films.
Early life
She w ...
, ''
Manavudu Danavudu'' (1972) opposite
Krishna Kumari, ''
Neeti-Nijayiti'' (1972) opposite Kanchana and ''Vintha Dampatulu'' (1972) opposite
Jamuna. Later he acted in films such as ''
Badi Panthulu'' (1972), ''
Bala Mitrula Katha'' (1972), ''
Jeevana Tarangalu
''Jeevana Tarangalu'' () is a 1973 Indian Telugu-language drama film directed by T. Rama Rao. The film stars Sobhan Babu, Krishnam Raju, Vanisri, Chandramohan, and Lakshmi. It is based on a novel by Yaddanapudi Sulochana Rani, and won three F ...
'' (1973), and ''Kanna Koduku'' (1973). In most of the films, he acted as an antihero, villain, and supporting roles and in leadership roles in a few films.
1974–1983
Krishnam Raju acted in ''
Bantrothu Bharya
''Bantrothu Bharya'' (translation:Wife of Peon) is a 1974 Telugu drama film directed by Dasari Narayana Rao and produced by Allu Aravind and Dasari Narayana Murthy under Geetha Arts. The film stars Chalam, Krishnam Raju, Srividya and Vijaya N ...
'' which marks the first collaboration of Krishnam Raju with
Dasari Narayana Rao
Dasari Narayana Rao (4 May 1947 – 30 May 2017) was an Indian film director, producer, screenwriter, actor, lyricist, and politician known for his works predominantly in Telugu cinema, in addition to Hindi cinema. He has directed more than 150 ...
. Later he acted in the critically acclaimed film ''
Krishnaveni'' opposite
Vanisri
Vanisri (born Rathna Kumari) is an Indian actress known for her works predominantly in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada films. In a film career spanning 40 years, she has received three Filmfare Awards South, the Nandi Awards and the Tamil Nadu S ...
directed by
V. Madhusudhana Rao. The film marks the debut of Krishnam Raju as a producer, the film was produced under his own production house Gopi Krishna Movies. Later he acted in ''
Parivartana'' opposite Jamuna, Kanchana and
Lakshmi
Lakshmi (; , sometimes spelled Laxmi, ), also known as Shri (, ), is one of the principal goddesses in Hinduism. She is the goddess of wealth, fortune, power, beauty, fertility and prosperity, and associated with ''Maya'' ("Illusion"). Alo ...
, and ''Bharati'' opposite Jamuna, ''Iddaru Iddare,'' and ''
Yavvanam Katesindi
''Yavvanam Katesindi'' () is a 1976 Telugu-language drama film directed by Dasari Narayana Rao and produced by Vijaya Bapineedu. The film stars Krishnam Raju, Jayachitra and Murali Mohan. The music was composed by Chakravarthy. It is a rema ...
''. Later he acted in ''
Bhakta Kannappa
''Bhakta Kannappa'' () is a 1976 Indian Telugu-language film directed by Bapu. The film is a remake of 1954 Kannada movie '' Bedara Kannappa'' starring Rajkumar which was based on the life of Shaiva devotee, Kannappa Nayanar.
Credits
Cast
* ...
'' portraying the roles of
Arjuna and
Kannappa Nayanar
Kannappa was a staunch devotee of Shiva and is closely associated with Srikalahasteeswara Temple. He was a hunter and is believed to have plucked his eyes to offer to Srikalahasteeswara linga, the presiding deity of Srikalahasti Temple. He is ...
directed by
Bapu which is the unique Telugu film to win the
National Film Award for Best Audiography
The National Film Award for Best Audiography is one of the National Film Awards presented annually by the Directorate of Film Festivals, the organisation set up by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, India. It is one of several awards pre ...
. Later he acted in the
crime
In ordinary language, a crime is an unlawful act punishable by a state or other authority. The term ''crime'' does not, in modern criminal law, have any simple and universally accepted definition,Farmer, Lindsay: "Crime, definitions of", in Ca ...
drama
Drama is the specific mode of fiction represented in performance: a play, opera, mime, ballet, etc., performed in a theatre, or on radio or television.Elam (1980, 98). Considered as a genre of poetry in general, the dramatic mode has b ...
''
Manchiki Maro Peru''. Later he acted in ''
Kurukshetram'' portraying the role of
Karna
Karna (Sanskrit: कर्ण, IAST: ''Karṇa''), also known as Vasusena, Anga-raja, and Radheya, is one of the main protagonists of the Hindu epic '' Mahābhārata''. He is the son of the sun god Surya and princess Kunti (mother of the ...
directed by
Kamalakara Kameswara Rao
Kamalakara Kameswara Rao (14 October 1911 – 29 June 1998) was an Indian film director known for his works predominantly in Telugu cinema, and a few Tamil and Hindi films. Widely known as ''Pauranika Chitra Brahma'' (), Kameswara Rao directed fi ...
. Later he acted in ''
Amara Deepam'' which marks the first collaboration of Krishnam Raju with
K. Raghavendra Rao
Kovelamudi Raghavendra Rao (born 23 May 1942) is an Indian film director, screenwriter, and producer known for his works predominantly in Telugu cinema besides having directed a few Hindi films. He has garnered four state Nandi Awards and fiv ...
. The film earned him
Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) and
Nandi Award for Best Actor
The Nandi Award for Best Actor was commissioned by the Nandi Awards committee in 1977. The winner is awarded a "Silver Nandi", "Sri Rajendra Prasad Gold Medal", cash award and a commendation certificate. Venkatesh has won the most Best Actor awa ...
for the year 1977. Later he acted in films such as ''
Jeevana Teeralu'', ''Manushulu Chesina Dongalu,'' and ''
Sati Savitri''. Later he acted in the lavishly made ''
Katakatala Rudrayya
''Katakatala Rudrayya'' is a 1978 Indian Telugu-language film written and directed by Dasari Narayana Rao. It stars Krishnam Raju, Jayasudha, Ramakrishna and Jayachitra. The film hasmusic composed by J. V. Raghavulu. It is remade in Tamil a ...
'' which grossed made on a budget of . Later he acted in ''
Mana Voori Pandavulu'' which was produced by him and Jaya Krishna. The film garnered
Filmfare Best Film Award (Telugu)
The Filmfare Award for Best Film is given by the ''Filmfare'' magazine as part of its annual Filmfare Awards for Hindi films.
The award was first given in 1954. Here is a list of the award winners and the nominees of the respective years. Eac ...
for the year 1978 and Krishnam Raju shared the award with Jaya Krishna. ''Katakataala Rudraiah'' and ''Mana Voori Pandavulu'' was released within a gap of 10 days and both films became blockbusters. Later he acted in films such as ''Ramabanam'', ''
Andadu Aagadu
''Andadu Aagadu'' (translation: He Can Not Be Caught and He Does Not Stop) is a 1979 Telugu spy thriller film directed by S. D. Lal and produced by Shrikant Nahata under Shrikant Pictures. The film stars Krishnam Raju and Latha Sethupathi in ...
'' in which he acts in a role of a
spy
Espionage, spying, or intelligence gathering is the act of obtaining secret or confidential information (intelligence) from non-disclosed sources or divulging of the same without the permission of the holder of the information for a tangib ...
which is parallel to
James Bond
The ''James Bond'' series focuses on a fictional British Secret Service agent created in 1953 by writer Ian Fleming, who featured him in twelve novels and two short-story collections. Since Fleming's death in 1964, eight other authors have ...
, which became a smash hit. Later he acted in ''
Rangoon Rowdy
''Rangoon Rowdy'' is a 1979 Telugu drama film directed by Dasari Narayana Rao and produced by Vadde Sobhanadri under Vijaya Madhavi Pictures. The film was presented by Vadde Kishore. The film stars Mahanati Savitri, Krishnam Raju, Jaya Prada, M ...
'', ''
Sri Vinayaka Vijayamu
''Sri Vinayaka Vijayamu'' is a 1979 Telugu-language Hindu mythological film directed by Kamalakara Kameswara Rao and produced by Jagarlamudi Radhakrishna Murthy under Jaganmatha Arts. The film stars Krishnam Raju, Rama Krishna, Vanisri, M. G. V. ...
'' portraying the role of
Lord Shiva
Shiva (; sa, शिव, lit=The Auspicious One, Śiva ), also known as Mahadeva (; ɐɦaːd̪eːʋɐ, or Hara, is one of the principal deities of Hinduism. He is the Supreme Being in Shaivism, one of the major traditions within Hindu ...
. Later he acted in films such as ''Shivamettina Satyam'', ''Kalyana Chakravarti,'' and ''
Alludu Pattina Bharatam
''Alludu Pattina Bharatam'' is a 1980 Telugu-language drama film directed by K. Viswanath and produced by D. V. S. Raju under D. V. S. Productions. The film stars Krishnam Raju, Jayasudha, Kavita and Nagabhushanam. The music was composed by ...
'' which were directed by
K. Viswanath
Kasinadhuni Viswanath (born 19 February 1930) is an Indian film director, screenwriter and actor, known for his works primarily in Telugu cinema. He is recipient of five National Film Awards, seven state Nandi Awards, ten Filmfare Awards South ...
. Later he acted in ''
Sita Ramulu
Sita Ramulu is a 1980 Telugu-language drama film directed by Dasari Narayana Rao starring Krishnam Raju, Jaya Prada and Mohan Babu. The music was composed by Chellapilla Satyam. The song "Toli Sandhya Velalo" is a chartbuster and is remembered ...
'', ''
Bebbuli,'' and ''
Prema Tarangalu'', the Telugu remake of the 1978 Bollywood blockbuster ''
Muqaddar Ka Sikandar
''Muqaddar Ka Sikandar'' () is a 1978 Indian drama film produced and directed by Prakash Mehra, and written by Kader Khan, Vijay Kaul and Laxmikant Sharma. It stars Amitabh Bachchan, in his fifth of nine films with Prakash Mehra to date, along w ...
''. In 1981, he acted in ''
Aadavaallu Meeku Joharlu'' directed by
K. Balachander
Kailasam Balachander (9 July 1930 – 23 December 2014) was an Indian film maker and playwright who worked mainly in the Tamil cinema. He was well known for his distinct film-making style, and the Indian film industry knew him as a master of un ...
. In the same year, he acted in ''
Agni Poolu'' which was based on
Yaddanapudi Sulochana Rani
Yaddanapudi Sulochana Rani (2 April 1940 – 18 May 2018) was an Indian Telugu language novelist. She had a strong fan following since the 1970s and early 1980s, especially among women. Several of her stories were made into films and television ...
's
novel of the same name. Later he acted in the musical hit, ''
Puli Bidda'', ''Taxi Driver'', ''
Ragile Jwala'', ''Guvvala Janta'', ''Rama Lakshmanulu'', ''
Madhura Swapnam
''Madhura Swapnam'' is a 1982 Telugu-language film based on A. J. Cronin's novel, ''The Citadel''. It was directed by K. Raghavendra Rao and stars Krishnam Raju, Jaya Prada and Jayasudha in the lead. The movie is also inspired by Yaddanapudi ...
'', ''
Talli Kodukula Anubandham'', ''
Nipputo Chelagaatam
''Nipputo Chelagaatam'' () is a 1982 Telugu language action drama film directed by Kommineni Seshagiri Rao and produced by Y. V. Rao. The film stars Krishnam Raju, Sharada, Jayasudha and Sarath Babu. The film is a remake of 1978 Bollywood film ...
'', ''
Golconda Abbulu'', ''Jaggu'', ''Pralaya Rudrudu,'' and critically acclaimed ''
Trisulam''. Later he acted in ''Nijam Chebite Nerama!'', ''
Adavi Simhalu
''Adavi Simhalu'' ( ''Forest Lions'') is a 1983 Telugu-language action film, produced by C. Ashwini Dutt under the Vyjayanthi Movies banner and directed by K. Raghavendra Rao. The film stars Krishna, Krishnam Raju, Jaya Prada, Sridevi and m ...
'', ''
Puli Bebbuli
''Puli Bebbuli'' is a 1983 Telugu-language film directed by K. S. R. Das. This film stars Krishnam Raju, Chiranjeevi, Jaya Prada and Raadhika.
Plot
Cast
*Krishnam Raju as Raj Kumar
*Chiranjeevi as Gopi Krishna
*Jaya Prada as Sita
*Raadhik ...
'', ''Kotikokkadu'' and ''
Dharmaatmudu
''Dharmaatmudu'' () is a 1983 Indian Telugu-language drama film directed by Bairisetty Bhaskara Rao and produced by K. Kesava Rao. The film stars Krishnam Raju and Jayasudha. The film had musical score by Chellapilla Satyam. It was remade in Tam ...
''.
1984–1990
In 1984, Krishnam Raju acted in ''
Yuddham'', ''Sardar'', ''
Babulugaadi Debba'', ''Kondaveeti Nagulu'' and ''S. P. Bhayankar''. Later, he acted in the Tollywood industrial hit ''
Bobbili Brahmanna'' which earned him
Filmfare Best Actor Award (Telugu) and
Nandi Award for Best Actor
The Nandi Award for Best Actor was commissioned by the Nandi Awards committee in 1977. The winner is awarded a "Silver Nandi", "Sri Rajendra Prasad Gold Medal", cash award and a commendation certificate. Venkatesh has won the most Best Actor awa ...
. He also remade the film in Hindi as ''
Dharm Adhikari
''Dharm Adhikari'' () is a 1986 Hindi-language action film, produced by U.V. Suryanarayana Raju under the Gopi Krishna Movies banner, presented by Krishnam Raju and directed by K. Raghavendra Rao. The film stars Dilip Kumar, Jeetendra, Sridev ...
'' with
Dilip Kumar
Mohammed Yusuf Khan (; 11 December 1922 – 7 July 2021), better known by his stage name Dilip Kumar, was an Indian actor who worked in Hindi cinema. Credited with pioneering method acting in cinema, he dominated the Indian movie scene from ...
and
Jeetendra
Ravi Kapoor ( ; born 7 April 1942), known mononymously by his screen name Jeetendra, is an Indian actor who is known for his work in Hindi cinema. He also serves as the chairman of the Balaji Telefilms and Balaji Motion Pictures.
Early lif ...
in 1986. Later, he acted in films such as ''
Raraju'', ''Bharatamlo Shankaravam'', ''Rowdy'', ''Bandee'', ''
Tirugubatu'', ''Aggi Raju'', ''
Bullet'', ''Ukku Manishi'', ''Ravana Brahma'', ''Neti Yugadharmam,'' and ''
Ugra Narasimham
''Ugra Narasimham'' is a 1986 Telugu-language action drama film written, directed and produced by Dasari Narayana Rao under Tharaka Prabhu Films banner. The film stars Krishnam Raju, Jaya Prada and Mohan Babu. The music was composed by Chella ...
''. In 1986, he acted in ''
Tandra Paparayudu'' portraying the role of
Tandra Paparayudu which earned him the Filmfare Best Actor Award for the year 1986. The film premiered at the 11th
International Film Festival of India. Later, he acted in films such as ''
Sardar Dharmanna
''Sardar Dharmanna'' is a 1987 Telugu language drama film directed by Bairisetty Bhaskara Rao and produced by Yalamanchili Saibabu. The film stars Krishnam Raju, Vishnuvardhan, Jayasudha, Radhika, Mohan Babu, and Rajani. The film had musica ...
'' and ''Marana Shasanam'' which earned him the Filmfare Best Actor Award for the year 1987. In 1987, he acted in ''
Brahma Nayudu'', ''
Viswanatha Nayakudu
''Viswanatha Nayakudu'' is a 1987 Telugu historical film directed by Dasari Narayana Rao. The film won four Nandi Awards.
Plot
The story is based on an Indian historical event during the 16th century. It narrates the victory of Viswanatha Naya ...
'' portraying the role of
Srikrishnadevaraya. Later, he acted in films such as ''Maarana Homam'', ''
Kirai Dada
''Kirayi Dada'' is a 1987 Indian Telugu-language action drama film produced by V. Doraswamy Raju under VMC Productions and directed by A. Kodandarami Reddy. It stars Nagarjuna, Amala, Khusboo, Krishnam Raju, Jaya Sudha and music composed b ...
'', ''Maa Inti Maha Raju'', ''
Antima Teerpu'', ''Prithvi Raj'', ''Prachanda Bharatam'', ''
Dharma Teja
''Dharma Teja'' is a 1989 Indian Telugu-language film directed by Perala and produced by Sainath. It stars Krishnam Raju, Sharada, Raadhika and Vani Viswanath. The music was composed by Vidyasagar. The film was a remake of Tamil film ''Poontho ...
'', ''Prana Snehitulu'', ''
Simha Swapnam
''Simha Swapnam'' () is a 1989 Indian Telugu-language crime film, produced by V. B. Rajendra Prasad under the Jagapathi Art Pictures banner and directed by V. Madhusudhana Rao. It stars Krishnam Raju, Jayasudha, Jagapathi Babu, Vani Viswanath ...
'', ''Shri Ramachandrudu'', ''Bhagawan'', ''
Two Town Rowdy
''Two Town Rowdy'' is a 1989 Telugu-language action film produced by C. Venkat Raju and B. Sivaraju under the Sri Vijaya Lakshmi Productions banner and directed by Dasari Narayana Rao. It stars Venkatesh and Radha , with music composed by Ra ...
'', ''Yama Dharma Raju'' and ''
Neti Siddhartha
''Neti Siddhartha'', also known by its alternative title ''Siddhartha'', is a 1990 Telugu-language action film produced and directed by Kranthi Kumar under the Kranthi Chitra banner. It stars Nagarjuna, Krishnam Raju, Shobana and Ayesha Jhulka ...
''.
1991–2022
In 1991, Krishnam Raju acted in ''Vidhata'', ''
Bava Bavamaridi'', ''
Jailor Gaari Abbayi
''Jailor Gaari Abbayi'' () is a 1994 Indian Telugu-language action drama film written by the Paruchuri brothers and directed by Sarath. It stars Krishnam Raju, Jayasudha, Jagapathi Babu, Ramya Krishna and music composed by Raj–Koti. The ...
'', ''Andaroo Andare'', and ''
Gangmaster''. In 1994, he acted in ''
Palnati Pourusham
''Palnati Pourusham'' () is a 1994 Indian Telugu-language film directed by Muthyala Subbaiah. It is a remake of the 1993 Tamil film ''Kizhakku Cheemayile''. The film was released on 29 July 1994.
Plot
A brother and sister share a close bond w ...
'' & this film was a super hit at the box office. Later, he acted in ''Rikshaw Rudraiah'', ''Simha Garjana'', ''Nayudugaari Kutumbam'', ''Tata Manavadu'', ''Kutumba Gowravam,'' and ''
Maa Nannaku Pelli
''Maa Nannaku Pelli'' () is a 1997 Telugu-language drama film starring Krishnam Raju, Srikanth, Simran and Ambika. The film won two Nandi Awards. The film was a breakthrough for M. S. Narayana.
Plot
Balaraju ( Srikanth) is the only son of Rag ...
'' which won
. In 1997, he entered
Sandalwood
Sandalwood is a class of woods from trees in the genus ''Santalum''. The woods are heavy, yellow, and fine-grained, and, unlike many other aromatic woods, they retain their fragrance for decades. Sandalwood oil is extracted from the woods for us ...
and acted in two Kannada films viz ''Hai Bangalore'' and ''
Simhada Mari
''Simhada Mari'' () is a 1997 Indian Kannada-language action drama film directed by Om Prakash Rao and produced by Ramu. The film stars Shiva Rajkumar, Telugu actor Krishnam Raju and debutant Simran. The flash back portion which is considered ...
''. Later he acted in ''
Sultan'', ''
Vamsoddharakudu,'' and ''
Neeku Nenu Naaku Nuvvu
''Neeku Nenu Naaku Nuvvu'' is a 2003 Indian Telugu-language romantic comedy film starring Uday Kiran and Shriya Saran, directed by Raja Sekhar. It is produced by D. Suresh Babu on Suresh Productions banner. Krishnam Raju, Suman, Paruchuri V ...
'' which won Nandi Award for Akkineni Award for Best Home-viewing Feature Film. Later he acted in ''
Raam'' and ''
Billa Billa may refer to:
Films
*Billa (1980 film), ''Billa'' (1980 film), 1980 Indian Tamil film
*Billa (2002 film), ''Billa'' (2002 film), 2002 Pakistani Punjabi film
*Billa (2007 film), ''Billa'' (2007 film), 2007 Indian Tamil film, remake of ''Bil ...
'', a film of the ''
Don film series,'' and acted with
Prabhas
Uppalapati Venkata Suryanarayana Prabhas Raju (born 23 October 1979), known mononymously as Prabhas (), is an Indian actor who works predominantly in Telugu cinema. One of the highest-paid actors in Indian cinema, Prabhas has featured in '' F ...
for the first time. Later he acted in ''
Thakita Thakita
''Thakita Thakita'' is a 2010 Telugu coming-of-age film directed by Sreehari Nanu and produced by Bharat Thakur. The film features an ensemble cast of characters including Harshvardhan Rane, Haripriya, Aditi Chengappa, Ananth Krishnamurthy, an ...
'' and ''
Rebel
A rebel is a participant in a rebellion.
Rebel or rebels may also refer to:
People
* Rebel (given name)
* Rebel (surname)
* Patriot (American Revolution), during the American Revolution
* American Southerners, as a form of self-identification; ...
''. ''Billa'' marks the second innings of his production house, Gopi Krishna Movies. Krishnam Raju said in an interview that he would produce films continuously under the banner. Later he acted in ''
Chandee
''Chandee'', also spelled as ''Chandi'', is a 2013 Telugu film directed by V. Samudra starring Priyamani, R. Sarathkumar, Ashish Vidhyarthi and Krishnam Raju in the lead roles, and Ali and MS Narayana as key comedians. Scarlett Wilson appear ...
'', ''
Yevade Subramanyam
''Yevade Subramanyam'' () is a 2015 Indian Telugu-language coming-of-age philosophical drama film written and directed by debutant Nag Ashwin. Produced by Priyanka Dutt, and Swapna Dutt, the film stars Nani, Malavika Nair, Vijay Deverakond ...
,'' and the first Indian
3D historical film
A historical drama (also period drama, costume drama, and period piece) is a work set in a past time period, usually used in the context of film and television. Historical drama includes historical fiction and romances, adventure films, and swa ...
, ''
Rudhramadevi'' where he portrays the role of Ganapati Devudu, father of
Rudrama Devi
Rudrama Devi, also Maharani Rudramma Devi, was a queen of the Kakatiya dynasty in the Deccan Plateau from 1263 to 1289 (or 1295) until her death. She was among the women to rule as monarchs in India and promoted a male image in order to do so ...
. Raju's last film was ''
Radhe Shyam
''Radhe Shyam'' is a 2022 Indian period romantic drama film written and directed by Radha Krishna Kumar. Produced by UV Creations and T-Series, the film was shot simultaneously in Telugu and Hindi languages and stars Prabhas and Pooja Hegde ...
'' (2022), in which he played the role of Paramahamsa.
Political career
He contested an unsuccessful election in 1992 from
Narasapuram
Narasapuram, or Narsapur, is a city in West Godavari district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a municipality and mandal headquarters of Narasapuram mandal in Narasapuram revenue division. The city is situated on the banks of the V ...
on a
Congress
A congress is a formal meeting of the representatives of different countries, constituent states, organizations, trade unions, political parties, or other groups. The term originated in Late Middle English to denote an encounter (meeting of ...
ticket. After a brief hibernation, he rejoined politics, accepting an invitation from the
Bharatiya Janata Party
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP; ; ) is a political party in India, and one of the two major Indian political parties alongside the Indian National Congress. Since 2014, it has been the ruling political party in India under Narendra Mod ...
. He won the
1998 Lok Sabha elections
General elections were held in India on 16, 22 and 28 February 1998 to elect the members of the 12th Lok Sabha. The elections were held three years ahead of schedule after the government led by Inder Kumar Gujral
Inder Kumar Gujral (4 De ...
from
Kakinada
Kakinada ( formerly called Kakinandiwada, Coringa, and Cocanada; ) is the sixth largest city of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and serves as the district headquarters of the Kakinada District. It lies on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. J. ...
. He set a record with a thumping majority of over 165,000 votes, the maximum majority compared to any of the other constituencies in
Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh (, abbr. AP) is a state in the south-eastern coastal region of India. It is the seventh-largest state by area covering an area of and tenth-most populous state with 49,386,799 inhabitants. It is bordered by Telangana to the ...
which ensured him a berth at the centre. He was on the advisory committees of the
Information and Broadcasting and
Commerce and Industry Ministries during 1998–99.
* 1998 Elected to 12th Lok Sabha
* 1998-99 Member, Committee on Commerce Member, Consultative Committee, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
* 1999 Re-elected to 13th Lok Sabha (2nd term) Whip, B.J.P. Parliamentary Party, Lok Sabha
* 1999-2000 Member, Committee on Finance Member, Committee on members of parliament Local Area Development Scheme
* 2000 Member, Consultative Committee, Ministry of Commerce and Industry
* 30 September 2000- Union Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs 22 July 2001
* 22 July 2001- Union Minister of State, Ministry of Defence 30 June 2002
* 1 July 2002 - Union Minister of State, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food onwards and Public Distribution
Role in the prohibition of cow slaughter
The Ban on Cow Slaughter Bill, 1999 was introduced in the Lok Sabha by
which provided for a complete prohibition on the slaughter of cows for all purposes. The statement of objects and reasons appended to the Bill stated, "Article 48 of the Constitution enjoins on the State to organise agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines and in particular to take steps for preserving and improving the breeds and prohibiting the slaughter of cow and its progeny. Given the consideration that the cow and its entire progeny must be saved to provide milk, as well as manure, it becomes imperative to impose a complete ban on cow slaughter."
In 2000, Krishnam Raju moved a motion in the
Lok Sabha
The Lok Sabha, constitutionally the House of the People, is the lower house of India's bicameral Parliament, with the upper house being the Rajya Sabha. Members of the Lok Sabha are elected by an adult universal suffrage and a first-p ...
for the introduction of The Prohibition of Cow Slaughter Bill, 2000 with the following statement of objects and reasons, "Article 48 of the
Constitution
A constitution is the aggregate of fundamental principles or established precedents that constitute the legal basis of a polity, organisation or other type of entity and commonly determine how that entity is to be governed.
When these princ ...
enjoins upon the State to organise
agriculture
Agriculture or farming is the practice of cultivating plants and livestock. Agriculture was the key development in the rise of sedentary human civilization, whereby farming of domesticated species created food surpluses that enabled people t ...
and
animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines and in particular to take steps for preserving and improving the breeds and prohibiting the
slaughter of cow and its progeny.
G. M. Banatwala, raised the issue regarding the legislative competence of
Parliament
In modern politics, and history, a parliament is a legislative body of government. Generally, a modern parliament has three functions: representing the electorate, making laws, and overseeing the government via hearings and inquiries. Th ...
to enact legislation on the subject. Banatwala referred to the opinion given by the then
Attorney General,
M.C. Setalvad in the Lok Sabha on 1 April 1984 on the issue, to the effect that it was outside the legislative competence of that House to come forward with any Bill concerning the organisation of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry. However, the Chairman of the Lok Sabha in his ruling on the point raised by Banatwala inter alia observed that the Chair does not decide whether the Bill is constitutionally within the legislative competence of the House or not. Further, the House also does not take a decision on the specific question of vires of the Bill. The motion moved by was, therefore, put to the vote of the House and adopted. Accordingly, the Chair permitted the introduction of the Bill by Krishnam Raju."
Filmography
Death
Raju died on 11 September 2022, at the age of 82, from bacterial and fungal
pneumonia
Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lung primarily affecting the small air sacs known as alveoli. Symptoms typically include some combination of productive or dry cough, chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing. The severi ...
followed by
cardiac arrest
Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. It is a medical emergency that, without immediate medical intervention, will result in sudden cardiac death within minutes. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and poss ...
, at the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology Hospitals in Hyderabad, India, which he entered for post-COVID-19 issues on 5 August 2022.
Awards
;
Filmfare Awards South
*
Best Actor - Telugu -
Amaradeepam (1977)
*
Best Picture
This is a list of categories of awards commonly awarded through organizations that bestow film awards, including those presented by various film, festivals, and people's awards.
Best Actor/Best Actress
*See Best Actor#Film awards, Best Actress#F ...
-
Manavuri Pandavulu (1978) (award share with Jayakrishna)
*
Best Actor - Telugu -
Bobbili Brahmanna (1984)
*
Best Actor - Telugu -
Tandra Paparayudu (1986)
*
Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award
The Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award, initially named Raj Kapoor Award for Lifetime Achievement after Raj Kapoor is given by the ''Filmfare'' magazine as part of its annual Filmfare Awards for Hindi films.
List of honourees
† - Indicates t ...
(2006)
;
Nandi Awards
The Nandi Awards are the awards that recognise the excellence in Telugu cinema, Telugu theatre and Telugu television, and Lifetime achievements in Indian cinema. Presented annually by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, the award is named after ...
;
Best Actor
;
Best Character Actor
*2014 -
Raghupathi Venkaiah Award
The Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu Award is an award issued by the Indian state government of Andhra Pradesh, to recognise lifetime achievements in Telugu cinema. The award was introduced in 1981 in honour of Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu, a pioneer of t ...
TSR TV9 National Awards
* 2012 - Lifetime Achievement Award
* 2015 - Legend Actor of Silver Screen
* 2016 - 5 Decades Star Award
Zee Telugu Awards
*2015 - Lifetime Achievement Award
Gulf Andhra Musical Awards (GAMA)
*2015 - Lifetime Achievement Award
References
External links
*
*
{{DEFAULTSORT:Raju, Krishnam
Krishnam Raju
1940 births
2022 deaths
Indian male film actors
Male actors from Hyderabad, India
Politicians from Hyderabad, India
India MPs 1998–1999
India MPs 1999–2004
Telugu male actors
Male actors in Kannada cinema
Male actors in Tamil cinema
20th-century Indian male actors
21st-century Indian male actors
Telugu film producers
Hindi film producers
Filmfare Awards South winners
Nandi Award winners
Lok Sabha members from Andhra Pradesh
Union ministers of state of India
Indian actor-politicians
Telugu Desam Party politicians
Ministers for External Affairs of India
People from West Godavari district
Bharatiya Janata Party politicians from Andhra Pradesh
Praja Rajyam Party politicians
Male actors in Telugu cinema
Film producers from Andhra Pradesh
Deaths from the COVID-19 pandemic in India