Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, commonly known as NTR, is a name that echoes throughout the history of Indian cinema. He is known for his brilliant acting skills and iconic roles that have left an indelible mark on the Telugu film industry. Although he is widely known for his portrayals of divine characters such as Rama and Krishna, it is interesting to note that NTR’s first-ever acting role was not in Telugu cinema.
In 1957, NTR made his debut in the Tamil film “Mayabazar,” where he played the role of Krishna with such finesse that it became a defining moment in Indian cinema. This cinematic masterpiece is considered a gem in Telugu film history, and it established NTR as a force to be reckoned with in the Indian film industry.
NTR’s prowess as an actor transcended language barriers and captivated audiences across regions. He ventured into Tamil cinema with his portrayal of Lord Rama in the movie “Sampoorna Ramayanam,” which earned him accolades across Tamil Nadu. In the same film, he showcased his versatility by portraying Lord Bharata.
In 1958, NTR’s iconic portrayal of Lord Rama in “Sampoorna Ramayanam” saw a Telugu release, marking his debut in Telugu cinema. This dubbed version further solidified his status as a revered figure in Indian cinema. Later on, NTR’s portrayal of Rama in “Lava Kusa” mesmerized audiences, immortalizing the film as a milestone in cinematic history. The movie’s narrative, steeped in tradition, continued to resonate with audiences for years, underscoring NTR’s unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema.
