NTR the only actor to play Ram and Ravan on screen. NTR: The Actor Who Embodied Both Rama and Ravana, Earning Divine Status.Dussehra, the festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil, resonates with the epic Ramayana, a story brought to life countless times on screen. While many actors have portrayed Lord Rama and Ravana, only one has achieved the unique feat of embodying both roles with such iconic impact: the legendary N.T. Rama Rao, fondly known as Sr. NTR.
While known for his record-breaking 17 portrayals of Lord Krishna, Sr. NTR's cinematic legacy is indelibly linked to his masterful interpretations of Rama and Ravana. In 1958, he took on the role of Ravana in "Bhookailas," though the film didn't achieve widespread success. However, his definitive portrayal of the demon king came in the 1961 cult classic "Seetharama Kalyanam."
Four years later, he debuted as Lord Rama in "Lava Kusa," reprising the role in several subsequent films. This duality – playing both the hero and the villain – cemented his position as a cinematic icon, particularly in Telugu cinema.
Sr. NTR's mastery of mythological drama, which he dominated throughout the 1960s and 70s, transformed him into a messiah-like figure for Telugu audiences. He transcended the boundaries of mere acting, achieving a divine status through his roles.
This reverence extended beyond the screen. His home in Hyderabad became a pilgrimage site, attracting fans who sought blessings before visiting actual shrines. The devotion reached such a level that, in the 1970s, several temples dedicated to Sr. NTR, depicting him in his Rama and Krishna avatars, were built across Andhra Pradesh. Though reportedly uncomfortable with this practice, it was a testament to the profound impact he had on the lives of his fans.
Sr. NTR's transition from mythological roles to Robin Hood-esque characters further solidified his mass hero status, a popularity that eventually propelled him into politics. His cinematic journey, characterized by both divine and heroic portrayals, continues to inspire generations of actors and fans, solidifying his place as a true legend of Indian cinema.