Indian cinema is a treasure trove of diversity and innovation. Among the various regional film industries, the Telugu film industry, often referred to as Tollywood, has carved a niche for itself with a slew of outstanding movies over the years. Telugu cinema is renowned for its dramatic storytelling, dynamic action sequences, melodious songs, and impactful social messages. Here you will find the list of Top 10 Telugu Movies, that have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017)
Baahubali, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, is arguably the most significant Indian film franchise of the 21st century. These two epic movies redefined the scale and ambition of Telugu cinema, becoming massive successes both nationally and internationally. Prabhas, Anushka Shetty, and Rana Daggubati delivered stellar performances, while the groundbreaking VFX and captivating storytelling set new standards for the Indian film industry.
Magadheera (2009)
Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, “Magadheera” is another historical fantasy epic that left a lasting impact. With Ram Charan and Kajal Aggarwal in lead roles, this film is known for its exceptional action sequences and compelling story, transcending boundaries to find fans across India.
Arjun Reddy (2017)
“Arjun Reddy,” directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, is a modern-day love story that pushed the envelope in Telugu cinema. Vijay Deverakonda’s performance as a self-destructive, but deeply passionate, surgeon earned him widespread acclaim. The film was also remade in Hindi as “Kabir Singh.”
Rangasthalam (2018)
Sukumar’s “Rangasthalam” is a rural drama set in the 1980s, featuring Ram Charan and Samantha Akkineni. The film’s rustic backdrop, compelling storytelling, and strong character development make it a standout in Telugu cinema. It was praised for its portrayal of village life and social issues.
Eega (2012)
Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, “Eega” (Makkhi in Hindi) is a unique and imaginative story of revenge, where the protagonist is reincarnated as a housefly. This visually innovative film wowed audiences with its creativity and attention to detail, making it a cult classic.
Srimanthudu (2015)
“Srimanthudu,” directed by Koratala Siva, is a social drama that delivered a powerful message about rural development and the importance of giving back to society. Mahesh Babu’s role as a wealthy businessman who adopts a village was both heartwarming and impactful.
Bahubali: The Beginning (2015)
Though often overshadowed by its sequel, “Baahubali: The Beginning” deserves its own mention. This movie introduced the grandeur and scale of the Baahubali universe to the audience and set the stage for the epic saga that followed.
Attarintiki Daredi (2013)
“Attarintiki Daredi” is a family drama-comedy directed by Trivikram Srinivas, starring Pawan Kalyan. The film’s strong emotional core and memorable performances by the cast, along with the catchy music, made it a massive hit.
KGF: Chapter 1 (2018)
“KGF,” though primarily a Kannada film, also released in Telugu and gained immense popularity. Directed by Prashanth Neel, this action-packed period drama, starring Yash, redefined the boundaries of storytelling and action in the South Indian film industry.
Manam (2014)
“Manam,” directed by Vikram Kumar, is a unique film that revolves around the theme of reincarnation. Featuring three generations of the Akkineni family (Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Nagarjuna, and Naga Chaitanya), it was a heartwarming tribute to the late Nageswara Rao and a memorable family entertainer.
These top 10 Telugu movies have not only been successful at the box office but have also garnered critical acclaim, proving the versatility and depth of Telugu cinema. They have set new standards in storytelling, character development, and visual effects. From epic historical dramas to modern-day love stories, these films represent the rich tapestry of Indian cinema and its ability to captivate audiences across the world. With continued innovation and storytelling prowess, the Telugu film industry is poised to keep producing cinematic gems in the years to come, further enriching the cultural landscape of Indian cinema.
