Last updated: 11 Apr 2026
Telugu · Action, Drama, Musical
2h 18m · 17 Dec 1942
Music: M. D. Parthasarathi, Saluri Rajeswara Rao | DOP: B. S. Ranga | Writer: Balijepalli Lakshmikantha Kavi
Ratings
Our Rating
2.75
Based on a popular Telugu folk legend, the story follows Princess Bala Nagamma who is kidnapped by a wicked sorcerer named Mayala Marathi. He turns her into a dog and keeps her captive in his cave. Years later, her son Balavardhi grows up and embarks on a perilous journey to rescue his mother and defeat the sorcerer.
Kanchanamala: Delivered a career-defining performance as the titular character, portraying suffering and dignity with great poise.
Banda Kanakalingeshwara Rao: Highly acclaimed for his menacing portrayal of the sorcerer Mayala Marathi, which became a benchmark for villainous roles in early Telugu cinema.
Balijepalli Lakshmikantha Kavi: Gave a spirited performance as Sangu, the sorcerer's mistress.
Chittajalu Pullayya: Provided effective comic relief in one of his early significant roles.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Chittajalu Pullayya's direction was visionary, successfully translating a complex folk legend into a cinematic spectacle. His collaboration with S.S. Vasan resulted in a film that set new standards for technical excellence in South Indian cinema.
No rating sources available.
Our Rating
No collection data available yet.
No centers data available.
| Award | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Historical Recognition | Classic Status | Widely regarded as one of the greatest Telugu films ever made; preserved as a landmark in Indian cinematic history. |
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 95% |
| Neutral | 5% |
| Negative | 0% |
Retrospective reviews from film historians and critics describe the film as a 'path-breaking' fantasy drama. It is celebrated for its technical sophistication and for establishing Gemini Studios as a powerhouse in Indian cinema. The film was a massive cultural phenomenon at the time of its release.
Final Box-Office Result
Bala Nagamma released on 17 December 1942 (1942).
Bala Nagamma is declared a INDUSTRY HIT at the box office.
Bala Nagamma is available on Eros Now. OTT date will be updated soon.
Bala Nagamma directed by Chittajalu Pullayya. Produced by S. S. Vasan.
Bala Nagamma stars Kanchanamala, Banda Kanakalingeshwara Rao, Balijepalli Lakshmikantha Kavi.
Tollybo rates Bala Nagamma 2.75/5. Verdict: INDUSTRY HIT.
Music for Bala Nagamma composed by M. D. Parthasarathi, Saluri Rajeswara Rao.
Bala Nagamma — Genre: Action, Drama, Musical, Runtime: 138 minutes, Language: Telugu.
