Picture a rebel who stormed Telugu cinema with over 180 films in five decades, then charged into politics as a Union Minister—that’s Krishnam Raju, the legendary ‘Rebel Star.’ His rugged charisma in roles spanning thrillers, family dramas, epics, and myths kept audiences hooked, cementing his superstar status.
Born January 20, 1940, in Andhra’s Mogalthur, he ignited screens with 1966’s ‘Chilaka Gorinka,’ securing a Nandi nod. Mastering dual shades early, he became the go-to for rebellious heroes. Standouts: ‘Amara Deepam,’ ‘Bhakta Kannappa,’ ‘Tandra Paparayudu’ (Filmfare win, 1986), earning Nandis and 2006’s lifetime Filmfare South honor.
His production house, Gopi Krishna Movies, birthed devotional gems. Uncle to Prabhas, he bowed out in ‘Radhe Shyam.’
Politically audacious, he lost Narsapuram in 1992 with Congress, then won in 1999 with BJP, serving Vajpayee’s cabinet through 2004. Krishnam Raju’s saga underscores boundless talent, leaving a blueprint for stars who dare beyond the arc lights.