12 Telugu Mythological Films To Watch Before 'Shaakuntalam'

Nishanth A

Mayabazar (1936 and 1957)

Directed by KV Reddy, the film is known for its use of technology during the time as well as the excellent soundtrack by Ghantasala. Mayabazar has been made eleven times in various Indian languages, and the epic has two different Telugu versions (1936 and 1957).

Seetha Rama Kalyanam (1961)

Another adaptation of the Ramayana, this film uniquely focuses on Ravana and the events that occur before his clash with Rama.While NT Rama Rao essayed the role of Ravana for the second time after Bhookailasa, he also turned director for the first time with this film.

Sri Krishna Tulabharam (1966)

Starring NT Rama Rao as Lord Krishna, the film is directed by Kamalakara Kameswara Rao and also features Jamuna as Satyabhama and Anjali Devi as Rukmini.

Sri Krishnarjuna Yuddham (1963)

The film follows the battle between Krishna and Arjuna after the latter gives protection to Gaya who angers Lord Krishna. The mythological drama is directed by KV Reddy and stars NT Rama Rao as Lord Krishna and Akkineni Nageswara Rao as Arjuna.

Dakshayagnam (1962)

This mythological drama follows the story of Daksha, the king of all Prajapatis. Daksha marries his daughters off to Lord Chandra, but the latter only spends time with Rohini, ignoring the others. Enraged, Daksha curses Chandra who seeks help from Lord Shiva.