Last updated: 25 Mar 2026
Telugu · Biography
2h 50m · 9 Jan 2019
Music: M.M. Keeravaani | DOP: Gnana Shekar V. S. | Writer: Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi, Sai Madhav Burra
Ratings
Our Rating
2
N.T.R: Kathanayakudu is a biographical drama that chronicles the life and career of legendary Telugu actor and politician Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao. The film explores his journey from a humble beginning to becoming a celebrated film star and a revered political leader, highlighting his contributions to Telugu cinema and his charismatic leadership.
Nandamuri Balakrishna: Powerful and convincing portrayal of his father, capturing the essence of N.T.R.'s charisma and intensity.
Vidya Balan: Strong and dignified performance as Basavatarakam, N.T.R.'s wife.
Kalyan Ram: Supportive role with adequate screen presence.
Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi: Effective in her role, adding emotional depth.
Nandamuri Balakrishna: Brief but impactful appearance.
Vidya Balan: Good supporting role.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi delivers a respectful and detailed biopic focusing on N.T.R.'s cinematic journey, balancing emotional moments with historical context, though sometimes the narrative feels stretched and overly glorified.
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Our Rating
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| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 40% |
| Neutral | 35% |
| Negative | 25% |
Critics appreciated the film for its heartfelt tribute to N.T.R. and Balakrishna's performance but noted its slow pace and lack of critical depth. The film resonated well with fans but received mixed reviews from general audiences.
Final Box-Office Result
N.T.R: Kathanayakudu released on 9 January 2019 (2019).
N.T.R: Kathanayakudu is declared a DISASTER at the box office.
N.T.R: Kathanayakudu is available on Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads from 8 January 2019.
N.T.R: Kathanayakudu directed by Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi. Produced by Nandamuri Balakrishna, Sai Korrapati, Vishnuvardhan Induri.
N.T.R: Kathanayakudu stars Nandamuri Balakrishna, Vidya Balan, Kalyan Ram.
Tollybo rates N.T.R: Kathanayakudu 2/5. Verdict: DISASTER.
Music for N.T.R: Kathanayakudu composed by M.M. Keeravaani.
N.T.R: Kathanayakudu — Genre: Biography, Runtime: 170 minutes, Language: Telugu.
