Annamayya (1997) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo
Last updated: 5 May 2026
Annamayya (1997) Review
Released on 22 May 1997, Annamayya (1997) is a Telugu biography, drama, history movie starring Nagarjuna Akkineni, Ramya Krishnan, Kasturi Shankar. Directed by K Raghavendra Rao. A cinematic version of the life of famous Indian saint-poet, Annamayya (born May 1408), follows the spiritual awakening of the mystic composer Annamayya, who's first motivated to write a song of praise after visiting a temple. His devotion is put to the test when he vows to fast until he comes face ... Our Rating: 3.5/5. Verdict: BLOCKBUSTER. Runtime: 2h 30m.
Annamayya(1997)
Telugu · Biography, Drama, History
2h 30m · 22 May 1997
DOP: A. Vincent | Writer: Nagarjuna Akkineni
Ratings
Our Rating
3.5
📖 Story
Annamayya is a biographical musical drama based on the life of the 15th-century Telugu singer and poet Annamacharya. The film traces his journey from a devout musician to a saintly figure, highlighting his devotion to Lord Venkateswara, his poetic compositions, and the challenges he faced in spreading his spiritual message.
Nagarjuna Akkineni: Powerful and soulful portrayal of Annamayya, capturing the saint's devotion and emotional depth.
Ramya Krishnan: Strong supporting role with emotional intensity.
Kasturi Shankar: Graceful and impactful in her role.
💪 Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- ✓Soul-stirring music and devotional songs
- ✓Strong lead performance by Nagarjuna
- ✓Beautiful cinematography by A. Vincent
- ✓Effective portrayal of historical and spiritual themes
Weaknesses
- ✕Pacing issues in the second half
- ✕Some melodramatic sequences
🎬 Direction & Writing
K Raghavendra Rao delivers a visually rich and emotionally engaging direction, blending devotional elements with cinematic storytelling effectively.
📰 Critic Reviews
📰 Ratings Sources
| Source | Rating |
|---|---|
| 8.1 | |
| 3.5 | |
| 0 | |
| 60 | |
| 100 |
Our Rating
💰 Box Office Collection
No collection data available yet.
🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards
| Run | Centers |
|---|---|
| 100 Days Centers | 41 |
No awards data available.
😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | Majority positive for performances and music |
| Neutral | Some neutral views on pacing |
| Negative | Few negative comments on melodrama |
Critics
The film was praised for its devotional content, Nagarjuna's performance, and technical finesse, though some critics noted minor pacing issues.
Final Box-Office Result
🏟 Theatrical Centers Run
100 Days - Centers
| # | City | Theater | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hyderabad | Devi | — |
| 2 | Secunderabad | Tivoli | — |
| 3 | Visakhapatnam | Chitralaya | — |
| 4 | Vijayanagaram | Ranjani | — |
| 5 | Gajuwaka | Kanya | — |
| 6 | Srikakulam | Kinnera | — |
| 7 | Anakapally | Ramachandra | — |
| 8 | Payakaraopet | Surya Mahal | — |
| 9 | Rajahmundry | Asoka | — |
| 10 | Kakinada | Padma Priya | — |
| 11 | Amalapuram | Venkatrama | — |
| 12 | Mandapeta | Satyasri | — |
| 13 | Pithapuram | Satya | — |
| 14 | Eluru | Sai Balaji | — |
| 15 | Bheemavaram | Satyanarayana | — |
| 16 | Tanuku | Padmasri | — |
| 17 | Tadepallygudem | Ranga Mahal | — |
| 18 | Palakollu | Annapurna | — |
| 19 | Vijayawada | Alankar | — |
| 20 | Machilipatnam | Urvasi | — |
| 21 | Gudiwada | Venkateswara | — |
| 22 | Guntur | Naz | — |
| 23 | Tenali | Priya | — |
| 24 | Chilakaluripeta | Vijayabhakar | — |
| 25 | Ongole | Sridevi | — |
| 26 | Cheerala | Bhavani | — |
| 27 | Nellore | Kaveri | — |
| 28 | Kandukur | Mohan | — |
| 29 | Warangal | Gemini | — |
| 30 | Karimnagar | Venkat Sai | — |
| 31 | Tirupati | Ramraj | — |
| 32 | Chittoor | Raghava | — |
| 33 | Madanapally | Ravi | — |
| 34 | Srikalahasti | VMS | — |
| 35 | Kadapa | Royal | — |
| 36 | Proddutur | Sudha | — |
| 37 | Nandyala | Pratap | — |
| 38 | Kurnool | Apsara | — |
| 39 | Anantapur | Sudha | — |
| 40 | Kadiri | Sangam | — |
| 41 | Bangalore | Pallavi | — |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
When did Annamayya release in theatres?▾
Annamayya released on 22 May 1997 (1997).
Is Annamayya a hit or flop?▾
Annamayya is declared a BLOCKBUSTER at the box office.
Where to watch Annamayya online? OTT release date?▾
Annamayya is available on Sun NXT, Eros Now, Hungama Play, MX Player, Apple TV+ from 31 March 2017.
Who directed Annamayya?▾
Annamayya directed by K Raghavendra Rao.
Who are the main cast members of Annamayya?▾
Annamayya stars Nagarjuna Akkineni, Ramya Krishnan, Kasturi Shankar.
What is the Tollybo rating for Annamayya?▾
Tollybo rates Annamayya 3.5/5. Verdict: BLOCKBUSTER.
What is the genre and runtime of Annamayya?▾
Annamayya — Genre: Biography, Drama, History, Runtime: 150 minutes, Language: Telugu.