Krishnam Raju Biography, Age, Early Life, Career, and More
Krishnam Raju, a legendary figure in Telugu cinema, is one of the most iconic actors and producers in Indian cinema. Fondly known as the “Rebel Star” for his bold, rebellious roles in numerous films, Krishnam Raju has left an indelible mark on the Telugu film industry. Over his five-decade-long career, he has delivered memorable performances and played a significant role in shaping the Telugu film industry. Additionally, Krishnam Raju ventured into politics and remained an influential figure both on and off the screen.
Personal Details
Detail | Information |
Full Name | Uppalapati Venkata Krishnam Raju |
Date of Birth | January 20, 1940 |
Place of Birth | Mogalthur, Andhra Pradesh, India |
Date of Death | September 11, 2022 |
Nationality | Indian |
Profession | Actor, Producer, Politician |
Years Active | 1966 – 2022 |
Spouse | Shyamala Devi |
Children | Three daughters |
Relatives | Prabhas (nephew) |
Early Life
Krishnam Raju was born on January 20, 1940, in Mogalthur, a village in West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh. Raised in a middle-class family, Raju developed a passion for films from a young age. His love for cinema was evident during his childhood, as he often participated in school dramas and cultural activities. However, before entering the film industry, Krishnam Raju pursued higher education and briefly worked as a journalist, which earned him respect in local circles.
His interest in cinema eventually led him to the silver screen, where he began his journey as an actor in the mid-1960s. His powerful presence, unique voice, and charismatic personality were quickly noticed by filmmakers, setting the stage for a long and successful career.
Age and Family
Krishnam Raju passed away at the age of 82 on September 11, 2022. He was survived by his wife, Shyamala Devi, and their three daughters. Krishnam Raju’s nephew, Prabhas, is one of the biggest stars in Indian cinema today, known for his work in the “Baahubali” series and other major films. Despite his fame, Krishnam Raju remained deeply connected to his family, and he was a guiding force for Prabhas throughout his career.
Career
Entry into Films
Krishnam Raju made his debut in Telugu cinema in 1966 with the film “Chilaka Gorinka.” Although the film did not do well at the box office, it marked the beginning of Raju’s long and illustrious career. In the initial phase of his career, Raju struggled to find success, but his perseverance and dedication to acting helped him land significant roles.
His breakthrough came in 1969 with “Bhakta Kannappa,” a mythological film that showcased his talent for portraying larger-than-life characters. His performance in this film was highly appreciated, and it established him as a versatile actor capable of handling a wide range of genres, from mythological to social dramas.
Rise to Stardom
Krishnam Raju rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s, a period when Telugu cinema was dominated by stars like N. T. Rama Rao and Akkineni Nageswara Rao. Raju carved out his own niche with his distinct choice of roles, often playing rebellious characters that resonated with the masses. His powerful performances in films like “Krishnaveni” (1974), “Jeevana Tarangalu” (1973), and “Mana Voori Pandavulu” (1978) earned him widespread recognition.
It was during this time that Raju earned the title “Rebel Star,” thanks to his iconic portrayal of strong-willed, fearless characters who often stood up against societal norms. Films like “Katakataala Rudraiah” (1978), “Bobbili Brahmanna” (1984), and “Tandra Paparayudu” (1986) further cemented his position as one of the leading actors in Telugu cinema.
Transition to Producing and Continued Success
In addition to his acting career, Krishnam Raju ventured into film production. He founded Gopi Krishna Movies, a production house that produced several successful films. Some of the notable films produced under his banner include “Amara Deepam” (1977), “Manavoori Pandavulu” (1978), and “Tandra Paparayudu” (1986), in which Raju also played lead roles. His success as a producer added another dimension to his career, allowing him to experiment with new genres and storytelling styles.
Despite shifting focus to producing, Raju continued acting well into the 2000s, often playing key supporting roles in major films. In the later phase of his career, he played more mature and nuanced characters, including important roles in films like “Billa” (2009), where he acted alongside his nephew, Prabhas.
Entry into Politics
Krishnam Raju’s influence extended beyond cinema, as he also had a successful political career. He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the early 1990s and served as a Member of Parliament from the Narsapur constituency. His popularity as an actor helped him gain traction in politics, and he was known for advocating for various social causes.
He was later appointed as a Union Minister of State for the Ministry of External Affairs in the government of India. Though he eventually took a step back from active politics, his contributions to both cinema and politics earned him respect across the spectrum.
Awards and Recognition
Over his long career, Krishnam Raju received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to Telugu cinema. He won several Nandi Awards, the highest honor in Telugu cinema, including Best Actor for his performances in “Tandra Paparayudu” and “Bobbili Brahmanna.”
His work in cinema and politics earned him immense respect, and he remains one of the most cherished figures in Telugu film history. His bold roles, combined with his contributions as a producer and politician, have left a lasting legacy.
Personal Interests and Philanthropy
Outside of his film and political career, Krishnam Raju was known for his philanthropic efforts. He actively supported various charitable initiatives, particularly those focused on education and healthcare. He believed in giving back to society, and his contributions to social welfare were widely appreciated.
Raju was also deeply spiritual and maintained a strong connection to his cultural roots. He often spoke about the importance of preserving Telugu culture and heritage, and his films frequently reflected these values.
Conclusion
Krishnam Raju’s journey from a young man passionate about films to becoming the “Rebel Star” of Telugu cinema is a story of talent, hard work, and dedication. With over five decades in the film industry, he left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers. His influence on Telugu cinema and his contributions to politics made him a multifaceted personality who will always be remembered for his impactful work on and off the screen.