Tollywood directors who shaped the industry

S. S. Rajamouli brought a new scale to Indian filmmaking with epics like Baahubali and RRR. Known for visual grandeur and emotionally charged narratives, he bridged regional and global audiences, putting Telugu cinema on the world map and redefining what mass entertainment could be.

Puri Jagannadh injected raw energy and boldness into Tollywood with hits like Pokiri and Businessman. Known for fast-paced narratives and unapologetic characters, he broke conventional storytelling norms and carved a niche that influenced the next wave of commercial filmmakers.

Ram Gopal Varma’s debut Shiva revolutionised action films with its gritty realism and technical finesse. He introduced a new visual language and bold storytelling that influenced countless filmmakers in and beyond Tollywood, laying the foundation for modern gangster dramas in Indian cinema.

Trivikram Srinivas is celebrated for his sharp dialogues, emotional depth, and philosophical undertones. Films like Athadu, Julayi, and Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo balance entertainment with insight, setting a benchmark for commercial cinema that’s both stylish and meaningful, resonating deeply with family audiences.

K. Viswanath elevated Telugu cinema with films like Sankarabharanam and Sagara Sangamam. Seamlessly blending classical arts with compelling storytelling, he redefined aesthetics and emotion in Indian films, earning both national and international acclaim. His work continues to influence generations of filmmakers and artists.