N T Rama Rao: The only actor who played the roles of Ram and Ravana is still remembered today

N T Rama Rao: Indian cinema and television have repeatedly beautifully portrayed the epic battle between Lord Rama and Ravana, the king of Lanka. This timeless saga of the Ramayana has always touched the hearts of audiences. Many actors have brought the characters of Rama and Ravana to life, but there is one actor who portrayed both with extraordinary intensity and depth. Let's take a look at the story of the only actor who portrayed both Rama and Ravana on the silver screen.

Rama and Ravana on the Silver Screen

The actor who achieved this unique feat is none other than Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, aka NTR (NTR), the former South Indian superstar and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. NTR, the grandfather of Jr. NTR, is the only actor in Indian cinema to have portrayed both Rama and Ravana.

He played Ravana in the 1958 film Bhookailasa. Although the film wasn't a commercial success, NTR's performance captured the attention of audiences. Subsequently, in the 1961 film Sita Rama Kalyanam, he once again played Ravana, the king of Lanka, bringing the mythological villain to life. Then, in 1963, NTR mesmerized audiences with his portrayal of Lord Rama in the film Lava Kusa. This role is considered one of his most memorable performances.

Famous for Mythological Characters

NTR was one of the biggest stars of Telugu cinema in the 1960s and 1970s. His popularity was such that his fans worshipped him like a "god." He played numerous mythological characters throughout his career, including Lord Rama, Ravana, and Lord Krishna. Notably, NTR played Lord Krishna in approximately 17 films, a record in Telugu cinema.

His acting was so powerful that his mythological films in the 1960s earned him a near-superhuman status among Telugu audiences. His home in Hyderabad was considered a pilgrimage site by his fans. Furthermore, in the 1970s, several temples were built in his name in Andhra Pradesh, where statues of the incarnations of Shri Ram and Krishna, played by him, were installed. This reflects the immense love people had for his acting and personality.

From Mythological Films to Social Cinema

Although after the 1970s, NTR worked less in mythological films and turned to mass-produced social and commercial films, his mythological roles remain deeply embedded in the hearts of audiences. His films were not only a source of entertainment but also reflected Indian culture and values.

NT Rama Rao's contribution to Telugu cinema and Indian culture is incomparable. We remember his remarkable acting, which immortalized the contrasting characters of Ram and Ravana on screen. His legacy lives on through actors like Jr. NTR and Telugu cinema.