I have always been fascinated by the world of cinema. The way it can transport us to different worlds and make us experience a gamut of emotions is truly remarkable. One of the most vibrant and exciting movie industries in India is Telugu cinema. Telugu movies have a unique charm and flavor that is hard to resist. In this article, I will take you on a journey to discover the best Telugu movies of all time.
Introduction to Telugu cinema
Telugu cinema, also known as Tollywood, is the film industry based in the Telugu-speaking states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. It is the second-largest film industry in India after Bollywood in terms of the number of films produced per year. Telugu cinema has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s when the first Telugu film, “Bhishma Pratigna,” was released in 1921.
Over the years, Telugu cinema has evolved and transformed into a powerhouse of creativity and innovation. From its humble beginnings as a regional cinema, Telugu movies have now become a global phenomenon, attracting audiences from all over the world.
Evolution of Telugu cinema over the years
The evolution of Telugu cinema can be divided into several phases. In the early days, Telugu movies were mostly mythological and historical dramas that were based on popular stories from Indian mythology. The 1950s and 60s saw the emergence of social dramas that dealt with contemporary issues such as poverty, corruption, and social inequality.
The 1970s and 80s were the golden era of Telugu cinema when some of the greatest movies in the history of Indian cinema were made. This period saw the rise of some of the biggest stars in Telugu cinema such as N.T. Rama Rao, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and Krishna. The 1990s and 2000s saw the emergence of a new generation of actors and filmmakers who brought a fresh perspective to Telugu cinema.
The rise of Telugu cinema globally
In recent years, Telugu cinema has gained a huge following not just in India but also around the world. The globalization of Telugu cinema can be attributed to the rise of digital platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime that have made Telugu movies accessible to audiences in different parts of the world.
Telugu movies have also made a mark at international film festivals. Films such as “Baahubali” and “KGF” have received critical acclaim and have been screened at prestigious film festivals such as Cannes and Toronto International Film Festival.
The must-watch Telugu movies of all time
If you are a fan of Telugu cinema or are looking to explore this vibrant movie industry, here is a list of must-watch Ibomma Telugu movies of all time.
Classic Telugu movies that every cinema lover should see
- Maya Bazaar (1957) – A timeless classic that is still considered one of the greatest movies in the history of Telugu cinema.
- Gundamma Katha (1962) – A comedy-drama that is a must-watch for its brilliant performances and witty dialogues.
- Mooga Manasulu (1964) – A romantic drama that is known for its soulful music and beautiful cinematography.
Top Telugu movies of the 21st century
- Baahubali (2015) – A magnum opus that took the world by storm with its breathtaking visuals and epic storyline.
- Arjun Reddy (2017) – A bold and unconventional love story that broke many stereotypes and set new standards for Telugu cinema.
- Rangasthalam (2018) – A period drama that is known for its authentic portrayal of rural life and brilliant performances by the cast.
Telugu movies that broke box office records
- Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017) – The highest-grossing Indian movie of all time that shattered box office records in India and around the world.
- Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020) – A family drama that became one of the highest-grossing Telugu movies of all time.
- Sarileru Neekevvaru (2020) – An action-comedy that broke box office records and became one of the biggest hits in Telugu cinema.
Telugu movies that won National and International awards
- Kanche (2015) – A war drama that won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu.
- Mahanati (2018) – A biopic that won several awards including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu and Best Actress for Keerthy Suresh.
- C/o Kancharapalem (2018) – A slice-of-life drama that won several international awards and was India’s official entry to the Oscars in 2019.
Telugu movies that made an impact on social issues
- Tagore (2003) – A social drama that dealt with the issue of corruption in the education system.
- Fidaa (2017) – A love story that challenged societal norms and showcased the importance of women’s empowerment.
- Jersey (2019) – A sports drama that highlighted the struggles of a middle-aged cricketer and showcased the importance of chasing your dreams.
Conclusion and final thoughts on Telugu cinema
Telugu cinema has come a long way since its inception and has established itself as a major player in the Indian film industry. With a rich history and a vibrant present, Telugu movies have something for everyone. Whether you are a fan of classic movies or modern blockbusters, Telugu cinema has it all.
So, if you are looking for a movie experience that is truly unique and unforgettable, do not miss out on the magic of Telugu cinema. Watch the movies on the list and discover for yourself why Telugu cinema is one of the most exciting and dynamic movie industries in the world.