In the realm of Indian cinema, Telugu films have carved an indelible niche for themselves, blending artistry, entertainment, and innovation seamlessly. From the grandeur of historical epics to the intricacies of heartwarming tales, Telugu cinema has consistently delivered masterpieces that have left an enduring impact on audiences spanning generations.
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We present the list of 25 best Telugu movies of all time, this list is not merely a collection of successful box office hits but a celebration of the art of storytelling, the genius of filmmakers, the dedication of actors, and the craftsmanship of the technicians who have collectively contributed towards the evolution of Telugu cinema. From the mesmerizing performances that have left an indelible mark on our hearts to the groundbreaking narratives that have challenged conventions, these movies have redefined the cinematic landscape and elevated Telugu cinema to a global pedestal.
Here’s the list of the 25 cinematic treasures, the finest gems that have defined Telugu cinema and enriched our lives with their unparalleled charm, depth, and brilliance.
Table of Contents
Mayabazar (1957)
IMDb rating: 9.1/10
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Cast: N.T. Rama Rao, S.V. Ranga Rao, Savitri
Mayabazar released in 1957 is a timeless masterpiece in Telugu cinema that continues to captivate audiences even decades after its release. The film seamlessly blends mythology, fantasy, and humor into a visually stunning and engaging cinematic experience. Set in the backdrop of the Mahabharata, the film narrates the tale of the Pandavas and their adventures.
One of the highlights of Mayabazar is its ingenious use of special effects considering the use of special effects at that time. Mayabazar is a celebration of storytelling, artistry, and creativity. Its impact on Indian cinema is immeasurable and its influence can be seen in subsequent films that have attempted to recreate its magic. As a true classic, Mayabazar remains an eternal gem in the history of not just Telugu cinema, but Indian cinema as a whole.
Pathala Bhairavi (1951)
IMDb rating: 8.5/10
Genre: Action, Adventure
Cast: N.T. Rama Rao, S.V. Ranga Rao
This is a landmark Telugu fantasy film directed by Kadiri Venkata Reddy. Set in a fictional kingdom, the story follows a daring young man’s quest to retrieve a magical gem from the mystical underground world. The film captivates the audience with its groundbreaking visual effects. The legendary N.T. Rama Rao played the lead role, showcasing his versatile talent. Pathala Bhairavi remains a cultural touchstone, admired for its pioneering visuals, engaging narrative, and enduring impact it had on Telugu cinema.
Sankarabharanam (1979)
IMDb rating: 8.9/10
Genre: Drama, Music, Romance
Cast: J.V. Somayajulu, Manju Bhargavi, Tulasi
Sankarabharanam stands as a milestone in Telugu cinema, directed by K. Viswanath. The musical drama follows a traditional Carnatic musician’s encounter with a rebellious dancer, challenging societal norms. With brilliant performances by J.V. Somayajulu and Manju Bhargavi, the film celebrates art’s power to transcend barriers. Its soul-stirring music, composed by K.V. Mahadevan, elevated the narrative, earning widespread acclaim. This movie not only revived classical music’s popularity but also earned critical acclaim. Its legacy endures, symbolizing the fusion of art and social commentary in Indian cinema.
Shiva (1989)
IMDb rating: 8/10
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Cast: Nagarjuna Akkineni, Amala Akkineni, Raghuvaran
Siva, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, redefined Telugu cinema with its gritty storytelling and realistic portrayal of student politics and crime. Akkineni Nagarjuna’s portrayal of a college student turned vigilante was groundbreaking. The film’s raw energy, intense dialogues, and innovative cinematography set new benchmarks. Its impactful soundtrack composed by Ilayaraaja further amplified its appeal. Siva marked a shift towards more realistic narratives and established Ram Gopal Varma as a prominent director.
Sagara Sangamam (1983)
IMDb rating: 8.8/10
Genre: Drama, Musical
Cast: Kamal Haasan, Jaya Prada, Sarath Babu
Released in 1983, Sagara Sangamam, directed by K. Viswanath, is a poignant exploration of art, passion, and personal struggles. Kamal Haasan’s portrayal of a brilliant but alcoholic classical dancer is noteworthy. The film delves into the sacrifices artists make for their crafts and the clash between tradition and individuality. Jayaprada’s performance adds depth to the narrative, while Ilaiyaraaja’s music underscores the emotional journey.
Geethanjali (1989)
IMDb rating: 8.3/10
Cast: Nagarjuna Akkineni, Girija Shettar, Vijayakumar
Genre: Drama, Romance
Geethanjali, directed by Mani Ratnam, is a heartwarming Telugu romance that transcends conventional narratives. The film delicately explores love and mortality as it follows a writer( Nagarjuna) who befriends a terminally ill woman ( Girija Shettar). With a blend of tender moments and light-hearted humor, the film strikes a perfect balance. The film’s sensitivity in handling a somber theme garnered praise and it remains cherished for its honest depiction of love, friendship, and fragility of life.
Donga Donga( 1993)
IMDb rating: 7.1/10
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Cast: Prasanth, Anand, Heera Rajgopal
Donga Donga, directed by Mani Ratnam, is a Telugu action-adventure that seamlessly blends thrills with a compelling narrative. The film follows a group of friends entangled in a heist. Set against the picturesque landscapes of Goa, the movie weaves engaging action sequences with moments of camaraderie and romance. A.R. Rahman’s music amplifies the film’s excitement.
Annamayya (1997)
IMDb rating: 8.0/10
Genre: Biography, Drama, History
Cast: Nagarjuna Akkineni, Suman, Bhanupriya
Annamayya, directed by K. Raghavendra Rao, is a Telugu biographical film that chronicles the life of the revered saint and poet Tallapaka Annamacharya. The film follows Annamacharya’s journey in composing thousands of devotional songs dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. With mesmerizing music composed by M.M. Keeravani, the film captures the spiritual fervor and cultural significance of his compositions. Annamayya not only offers a glimpse into the remarkable poet’s life but also celebrates the power of art and devotion to transcend generations and touch lives.
Indra (2002)
IMDb rating: 7.5/10
Genre: Action, Drama
Cast: Chiranjeevi, Sonali Bendre, Aarthi Agarwal
This movie has been directed by B. Gopal and is an action drama that stands out for its gripping narrative and powerful performances. Starring Chiranjeevi in the lead role, the film explores the tumultuous journey of a man seeking justice for his family. With a blend of action, emotion, and family dynamics, Indra delivers intense entertainment. This movie became a massive hit and remains a milestone in Chiranjeevi’s career, leaving an indelible impact on Telugu cinema’s action genre.
Pokiri (2006)
IMDb rating: 8.0/10
Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
Cast: Mahesh Babu, Ileana D’Cruz, Prakash Raj
Pokiri, directed by Puri Jagannadh, revolutionized Telugu cinema with its edgy storytelling and dynamic protagonist. Mahesh Babu’s portrayal of a fearless cop navigating the criminal underworld is electrifying. The film’s gritty action sequences, coupled with a gripping narrative, captured audiences’ attention. Mani Sharma’s pulsating music and memorable dialogues added to its allure. Pokiri redefined Mahesh Babu’s career and set new benchmarks for commercial success. Its impact extended beyond the Telugu cinema, with remakes in several languages.
Magadheera (2009)
IMDb rating: 7.7/10
Genre: Action, Drama, Fantasy
Cast: Ram Charan, Kajal Aggarwal, Dev Gill
Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, this is a Telugu epic fantasy that captivated audiences with its grandeur and innovation. Ram Charan’s dual role, spanning two eras, showcased his versatility. The film intertwines past and present, romance and action, in a tale of reincarnation and revenge. Its breathtaking visuals raised the bar for Indian cinema. M.M. Keeravani’s music enriched the narrative. Magadheera not only pushed technical boundaries but also redefined Telugu cinema’s scale, making it a landmark film that continues to be celebrated for its visionary storytelling.
Eega (2012)
IMDb rating: 7.7/10
Genre: Action, Comedy, Drama
Cast: Sudeep, Nani, Samantha Ruth Prabhu
Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, this movie is an imaginative Telugu fantasy that defied conventions. The film’s unique premise follows a man reincarnated as a fly seeking revenge against his murderer. Sudeep’s portrayal of the antagonist and Nani’s voice for the fly lent depth to the characters. Rajamouli’s visionary storytelling and groundbreaking visual effects, enhancing the fly’s perspective, set new standards. M.M. Keeravani’s music elevated the experience making the movie a compelling experience.
Manam ( 2014)
IMDb rating: 7.9/10
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
Cast: Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Naga Chaitanya Akkineni
Directed by Vikram Kumar, this movie is a heartwarming Telugu film that beautifully weaves generational connections. The film stars the Akkineni family- Nageswara Rao, Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya, and Samantha- in a tale of reincarnation, love, and destiny. The film’s unique concept intertwines the characters’ lives across different periods. Manam is a poignant tribute to Nageswara Rao and a heartening celebration of family, making it a cherished film.
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015)
IMDb rating: 8/10
Genre: Action, Drama
Cast: Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty
This movie, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, is an epic Telugu film that redefined Indian cinema. The movie embarks on an awe-inspiring journey of power, ambition, and destiny, unveiling the story of Amarendra Baahubali. Prabhas’s dynamic portrayal, Rana Daggubati’s villainous act, and Ramya Krishnan’s regal performance stood out. The film’s grand scale, breathtaking visuals, and Rajamouli’s visionary direction captured global attention. M.M. Keeravani’s magnum opus music and extraordinary sets set new benchmarks.
Baahubali 2: The Conclusion
IMDb rating: 8.2/10
Genre: Action, Drama
Cast: Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty
This movie directed by S.S. Rajamouli stands as a monumental achievement in Indian cinema. The film delivers a captivating conclusion to the epic saga, delving into the origins of Amarendra Bahubali and his confrontation with the formidable Bhallaladeva. Prabhas’s towering presence, Rana Daggubati’s intense portrayal, and Anushka Shetty’s resilience shine. The movie’s awe-inspiring visuals, larger-than-life action, and M.M. Keeravani’s music mesmerize. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion redefined box office standards and proved cinema’s ability to create a cultural phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on history.
Jersey (2019)
IMDb rating: 8.5/10
Genre: Drama, Sports
Cast: Nani, Shraddha Srinath, Sathyaraj
Jersey, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, is a poignant Telugu sports drama that resonates with emotional depth. Nani’s portrayal of a failed cricketer turned late-blooming hero is heartfelt and relatable. The film explores his journey to redeem himself for the sake of his son and fulfill his cricketing dreams. With a realistic approach to the sport and life’s struggles, the film tugs at heartstrings. The film’s honest storytelling, exceptional performances, and relatability elevate it to a cherished gem in Telugu cinema, conveying the timeless message of perseverance and second chances.
Arjun Reddy (2017)
IMDb rating: 8.0/10
Genre: Action, Drama, Romance
Cast: Vijay Deverakonda, Shalini Pandey, Jia Sharma
Arjun Reddy, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, is a bold and controversial Telugu drama that challenges conventions. Vijay Deverakonda’s portrayal of a brilliant but self-destructive surgeon pushes boundaries. The film delves into his journey of love, loss, and addiction, showcasing raw emotions and flaws. Its unfiltered narrative and intense performances garnered attention, sparking debates on its depiction of relationships.
C/o Kancharapalem (2018)
IMDb rating: 8.8/10
Genre: Drama
Cast: Radha Bessy, Subba Rao Vepada, Praneeta Patnaik
This movie is a unique and heartwarming Telugu anthology film, directed by Venkatesh Maha. Set in a small town, it weaves together multiple love stories, transcending societal norms and barriers. The film’s non-professional actors lend authenticity to their characters, reflecting everyday life. With a realistic approach, it addresses themes like caste, religion, and love with sensitivity. The movie’s unconventional narrative and charming simplicity set it apart.
Rangasthalam( 2018)
IMDb rating: 8.2/10
Genre: Action, Drama
Cast: Ram Charan, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Aadhi
Rangasthalam, directed by Sukumar, is a rural Telugu drama that immerses viewers in its authentic setting. Ram Charan’s portrayal of a partially deaf man fighting societal injustices is powerful. The film captures the essence of village life while delving into political corruption and the fight for change. Its evocative storytelling is supported by Devi Sri Prasad’s music and Rathnavelu’s cinematography. The film’s success lies in its ability to connect emotionally and its commitment to realism.
Mahanati ( 2018)
IMDb rating: 8.4/10
Genre: Biography, Drama
Cast: Keerthy Suresh, Dulquer Salman, Samantha Ruth Prabhu
Mahanati, directed by Nag Ashwin, is a captivating biographical Telugu film celebrating the life of legendary actress Savitri. Keerthy Suresh’s portrayal of the iconic actress is remarkable, capturing her journey from innocence to stardom and eventual downfall. The film skillfully intertwines Savitri’s personal and professional life, exploring her achievements and struggles. The ensemble cast, including Dulquer Salman and Samantha, adds depth to the narrative.
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020)
IMDb rating: 7.3/10
Genre: Action, Comedy, Drama
Cast: Allu Arjun, Pooja Hedge, Tabu
This movie, directed by Trivikram Srinivas, is a family drama that strikes a balance between entertainment and emotion. Allu Arjun’s charismatic performance as a man caught in a corporate power struggle adds charm. The film weaves comedy, romance, and action, while Pooja Hedge’s chemistry with Allu Arjun adds depth to the narrative. The foot-tapping music and the energetic dance sequences enhance the film’s appeal.
Vakeel Saab (2021)
IMDb rating: 7.0/10
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Cast: Pawan Kalyan, Nivetha Thomas, Anjali
Vakeel Saab, directed by Venu Sriram, is a compelling Telugu courtroom drama that addresses important social issues. A remake of the Hindi film “Pink”, it stars Pawan Kalyan as a lawyer fighting for justice for three young women. The film not only showcases Pawan Kalyan’s powerful performance but also underscores the importance of consent and women’s rights. Its success lies in its ability to bring social awareness to mainstream audiences while delivering an engaging narrative.
Uppena (2021)
IMDb rating: 6.5/10
Genre: Action, Drama, Romance
Cast: Panja Vaisshnav Tej, Krithi Shetty, Vijay Sethupathi
Uppena, directed by Buchi Babu Sana, is a poignant Telugu romantic drama that explores love transcending societal barriers. The film follows the love story between a fisherman’s son and an upper-caste girl, challenging prevailing norms. The film’s evocative portrayal of social issues, coupled with Devi Sri Prasad’s soul-stirring music, amplifies emotions.
RRR (2022)
IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Genre: Action, Drama
Cast: N.T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Ajay Devgan
RRR is a 2022 Telugu language epic action drama film directed by S.S. Rajamouli. It revolves around the fictional lives of two revolutionaries, their friendship, and their fight against the British Raj. The movie received universal praise for its direction, screenwriting, cast performances, soundtrack, action sequences, and VFX. The film became the third Indian film to be nominated at the Golden Globe Awards including Best Foreign Language Film and won the Best Original Score for “Naatu Naatu”.
Pushpa: The Rise Part-1 (2021)
IMDb rating: 7.6/10
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Cast: Allu Arjun, Fahadh Faasil, Rashmika Mandanna
Pushpa: The Rise Part-1 is a 2021 Telugu action film written and directed by Sukumar. The film depicts the rise of a coolie Pushpa Raj in the smuggling syndicate of red sandalwood. The film was a commercial success. It became the highest-grossing Indian film of 2021 and ranks among the highest-grossing Telugu movies of all time. At the 69th National Film Awards, the movie won two awards- Best Actor( Allu Arjun) and Best Music Direction( Devi Sri Prasad).
Some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is regarded as the Father of Telugu cinema?
Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu is regarded as the Father of Telugu cinema. He produced Bhishma Pratignya, the first full-length Telugu film, in 1921. He was the first to build and own cinema halls in Madras.
What is the biggest film industry in India?
Tollywood or the Telugu film industry is the most significant in India as they make more movies than any other cinema industry in the country. The best part is they also generate a lot of revenue.
What are some of the Guinness Book records held in Tollywood?
- P Susheela is one of the most revered Indian singers around the globe. She holds the Guinness record for the most recorded artist in music history. She has reportedly recorded up to 17,695 solo, duet, and chorus-backed songs in over six Indian languages since the 1960s.
- One of the reigning comedy kings of India, Brahmanandam holds a Guinness Book of World Records for featuring in as many as 1000 films.
- D Ramanaidu was given the honor of being the most films produced by an individual for having produced more than 150 films in 13 Indian languages by the Guinness Book of World Records.
- Late singer S.P. Balasubramaniam made it to the Guinness Book of World Records for recording the highest number of songs with over 40,000 songs in various languages.
- Actor and director Vijaya Nirmala has the Guinness Book Record for being the female director in the world to direct 42 full-length movies.
Which is the highest-grossing Telugu movie of all time?
S.S. Rajamouli’s Baahubali 2: The Conclusion( 2017) is the highest-grossing Telugu movie of all time.
Which is the biggest film studio complex in the world?
The Ramoji Film City, spread over 1,666 acres in Hyderabad, is the largest film studio complex in the world and as such has been certified by the Guinness World Records.
