Films That Revolutionized Tollywood
Tollywood has undergone significant growth and transformation, producing high-quality, engaging films that appeal to national and international audiences. Here, we explore six monumental films that have redefined Tollywood’s reach and impact on Indian cinema, contributing to its recognition and success globally.
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017)
Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, the Baahubali series revolutionized Indian cinema. “Baahubali: The Beginning” and its sequel “Baahubali: The Conclusion” opened the Pan-India market for the Telugu film industry with grand storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and compelling performances, setting new benchmarks for Indian cinema. “Baahubali: The Conclusion” became the highest-grossing Indian film at the time, with a global collection of over Rs. 1,800 crores, and was the first Indian film to gross over Rs. 1,000 crores.
RRR (2022)
Another masterpiece from S. S. Rajamouli, “RRR” gained global recognition for its grandeur, historical narrative, and powerful performances. The film grossed over Rs. 1,200 crores worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing Indian films. “RRR” brought international media attention to Telugu cinema, solidifying its position on the global stage and earning praise for its storytelling, direction, and high production values.
Films That Revolutionized Tollywood
Kalki 2898 AD (2024)
Directed by Nag Ashwin, “Kalki 2898 AD” is an ambitious science fiction film that promises to be a game changer. It aims to showcase that S. S. Rajamouli is not the sole creator of Rs. 1,000 crore grosser. The film has already crossed the Rs. 900 crore mark, making it only the 10th Indian movie to surpass this milestone.
Salaar (2023)
Directed by Prashanth Neel of “KGF” fame, “Salaar” has created records at the box office even before its release. “Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire” has gained global momentum, captivated audiences, and dominated the box office, with collections in India reaching Rs. 700 crores.
Pushpa: The Rise (2021)
Directed by Sukumar, “Pushpa: The Rise” proved that films with a moderate budget and mass content could achieve pan-India success. The film’s rustic narrative, gripping storyline, and Allu Arjun’s stellar performance won hearts nationwide, grossing over Rs. 365 crores worldwide and becoming one of the highest-grossing Telugu films.
These six films have significantly contributed to the evolution and recognition of Telugu cinema, showcasing the industry’s ability to produce high-quality, engaging films that appeal to both national and international audiences. With visionary directors, talented actors, and compelling stories, Tollywood continues to set new standards and inspire the Indian film industry at large. Among these game changers, Prabhas stands out as a part of three monumental projects, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in Indian cinema.