Last updated: 25 Mar 2026
Telugu · Drama, Musical
3h 5m · 15 Dec 1940
Writer: Balijepalli Lakshmikantha Kavi
Ratings
Our Rating
4
A mythological epic based on the story of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Driven by his mother's desire, Ravana performs intense penance to obtain the Atma Linga from Lord Shiva. The story follows his journey, the intervention of Lord Vishnu and Narada, and the eventual establishment of the sacred Gokarna temple.
Subbaiah Naidu: Delivered a legendary performance as Ravana, characterized by powerful dialogue delivery and a commanding screen presence that defined the role for decades.
R. Nagendra Rao: Gave a dual performance as Kaikesi and Mandodari, showcasing emotional depth and poise.
Rayaprolu Subramanyam: Notable for her graceful portrayal of Maya.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Sundar Rao Nadkarni successfully transitioned the popular stage play to the silver screen, focusing on dramatic intensity and character-driven storytelling that resonated with the audience of the time.
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| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 95% |
| Neutral | 5% |
| Negative | 0% |
Historically acclaimed as a masterpiece of early Telugu mythological cinema. Critics often highlight the film as the definitive version of the Ravana story, primarily due to the theatrical brilliance of the lead cast.
Final Box-Office Result
Bhookailas released on 15 December 1940 (1940).
Bhookailas is declared a CLASSIC at the box office.
Bhookailas is available on N/A. OTT date will be updated soon.
Bhookailas directed by Sundar Rao Nadkarni. Produced by A. V. Meiyappan.
Bhookailas stars Subbaiah Naidu, R. Nagendra Rao, Rayaprolu Subramanyam.
Tollybo rates Bhookailas 4/5. Verdict: CLASSIC.
Bhookailas — Genre: Drama, Musical, Runtime: 185 minutes, Language: Telugu.
