N.T.R: Kathanayakudu

In 1947, Rama Rao works as a sub-registrar at the Guntur sub-courts. He resigns to pursue cinema, encouraged by Basavaramatarakam and his brother Nandamuri Trivikrama Rao. He heads toward Madras to seek opportunities in the film industry.

Rama Rao reaches Madras and is connected with LV Prasad and later B. A. Subba Rao, who guide him toward opportunities without a traditional audition. The mentors help pave his early path into cinema.

On the set of Palletoori Pilla, Rama Rao befriends Akkineni Nageswara Rao, a bond that grows with their nascent careers. The film marks a stepping stone toward his rising stature in the industry.

LV Prasad casts him in a cameo in Mana Desam, but his first lead Shavukaru becomes a commercial disaster due to financial problems. The setback tests his persistence as he searches for a real breakthrough.

Pathala Bhairavi places Rama Rao in a pivotal role under K. V. Reddy, becoming a blockbuster that establishes him as the first Telugu cinema superstar. The overwhelming success prompts the family to move to Madras for his growing career.

During a severe drought in the Rayalaseema region, Rama Rao unites industry stalwarts and mobilizes public donations to aid affected communities. The effort strengthens his public image as a leader who cares for people beyond the screen.

Rama Rao parts ways with Nagireddy over differences and launches his own banner, National Art Theatres, with Trivikrama Rao as producer and support from close associates. He forges collaborations to push his independent projects forward.

Nagireddy & Chakrapani urge his return, and during Mayabazar he plays Lord Krishna, captivating audiences with a divine portrayal and attire. The performance reinforces his larger-than-life status in cinema and popular culture.

P. Pullaiah directs Sri Venkateswara Mahatyam, elevating Rama Rao to a revered public figure as devotees visit Tirupati after seeing him. The devotional project cements his near-deity status in the cultural imagination.

Over the years, Rama Rao and Basavaramatarakam expand their family to eight sons and four daughters. He continues to take on landmark projects that reinforce his stature in Telugu cinema.

Rama Rao plans Seetharama Kalyanam with himself in the Ravana role, and when no director steps forward, he undertakes the project himself, toiling in the studio with intense dedication and completing demanding shoots. The film demonstrates his ambition and work ethic.

The Diviseema cyclone devastates parts of Andhra Pradesh, prompting Rama Rao to join Nageswara Rao in mobilizing relief donations. The crisis becomes a turning point, guiding him toward a future in public service and politics.