First Telugu Talkie - Bhakta Prahlada
The first Telugu talkie film, "Bhakta Prahlada," was released in 1931, marking the beginning of the sound era in Tollywood. Directed by H.M. Reddy, it was a significant milestone in the Telugu film industry.
1931
1951
Pathala Bhairavi - First South Indian Film at Cannes
"Pathala Bhairavi," a fantasy film directed by K. V. Reddy, was the first South Indian film to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival, highlighting the growing prominence of Tollywood on the international stage.
1957
Mayabazar - A Technological Marvel
"Mayabazar," directed by K. V. Reddy, was released in 1957 and is considered one of the greatest films in Tollywood. Known for its advanced special effects and storytelling, it remains a classic in Indian cinema.
1965
Introduction of Eastman Color in Telugu Cinema
The film "Amara Silpi Jakkanna," released in 1965, was the first Telugu film to use Eastman Color, marking a significant technological advancement in Tollywood's filmmaking process.
1977
Emergence of N.T. Rama Rao as a Political Leader
N.T. Rama Rao, a legendary actor in Tollywood, entered politics in 1977, founding the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). His transition from cinema to politics had a profound impact on both fields.
1983
Introduction of Chiranjeevi as a Megastar
Chiranjeevi, one of the most iconic actors in Tollywood, rose to stardom with the release of "Khaidi" in 1983. His dynamic performances and charisma earned him the title of Megastar.
1992
Release of Gharana Mogudu
"Gharana Mogudu," directed by K. Raghavendra Rao and starring Chiranjeevi, became the first Telugu film to gross over ₹10 crore, showcasing the commercial potential of Tollywood films.
2001
Launch of Mahesh Babu's Career
Mahesh Babu, a prominent actor in Tollywood, gained widespread recognition with the film "Murari" in 2001. He has since become one of the leading actors in the industry.
2002
Magadheera - A Box Office Hit
Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, "Magadheera" was released in 2002 and became one of the highest-grossing Telugu films of all time, further solidifying Tollywood's commercial success.
2009
Baahubali Series Announced
In 2009, director S. S. Rajamouli announced the "Baahubali" series, which would go on to become a global phenomenon, showcasing Tollywood's capability to produce world-class cinema.
2015
Release of Baahubali: The Beginning
"Baahubali: The Beginning," directed by S. S. Rajamouli, was released in 2015. It became a massive hit, breaking box office records and earning international acclaim for Tollywood.
2017
Baahubali 2: The Conclusion - A Global Blockbuster
"Baahubali 2: The Conclusion," the sequel to "Baahubali: The Beginning," was released in 2017. It became the highest-grossing Indian film worldwide, cementing Tollywood's place on the global stage.
2018
Rangasthalam - A Critical and Commercial Success
"Rangasthalam," directed by Sukumar and starring Ram Charan, was released in 2018. The film received critical acclaim and became one of the highest-grossing films in Tollywood.
2020
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo - A Musical Hit
"Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo," directed by Trivikram Srinivas and starring Allu Arjun, was released in 2020. The film's music and performances were widely praised, contributing to its commercial success.
2022
RRR - A Pan-India Success
"RRR," directed by S. S. Rajamouli and starring N. T. Rama Rao Jr. and Ram Charan, was released in 2022. The film received widespread acclaim and became a significant success across India and internationally.
2024
Tollywood Continues to Thrive
As of 2024, Tollywood continues to thrive, producing high-quality films that garner both critical and commercial success. The industry's ability to innovate and adapt ensures its ongoing influence in the global film market.
