Krishnam Raju Profile and Personal Life
Discover the inspiring journey of Krishnam Raju Profile and Personal Life, Krishnam Raju Telugu Hero’s Top Films, Early Career, Awards and Recognition, Net Worth, and more in this detailed biography.
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Krishnam Raju Profile and Personal Life
Uppalapati Venkata Krishnam Raju, fondly remembered as the “Rebel Star,” was a legendary actor in Telugu cinema and a prominent politician. His charismatic screen presence and impactful roles carved a niche for him in Indian cinema, and his contributions to politics and philanthropy have left an indelible legacy.
Profile Overview
- Full Name: Uppalapati Venkata Krishnam Raju
- Date of Birth: January 20, 1940
- Birthplace: Mogalthur, West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, India
- Spouse: Shyamala Devi
- Marriage Year: 1996
- Children: Three daughters
Krishnam Raju hailed from a family with agricultural roots and was deeply connected to his village and traditions. His brother’s son, Prabhas, is also a well-known actor in Telugu cinema. He initially pursued journalism and worked as a reporter before venturing into films.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Family
Uppalapati Venkata Krishnam Raju, popularly known as Krishnam Raju, was born on January 20, 1940, in Mogalthur, a small village in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, India. He hailed from a prominent agricultural family with traditional values. His family had deep roots in the region, and they were well-known for their contributions to society.
Krishnam Raju was the elder brother of Uppalapati Surya Narayana Raju, a renowned producer in Telugu cinema. He was also the uncle of Prabhas, one of the most celebrated actors in India today.
Education
Krishnam Raju completed his early education in Mogalthur before moving to Madras (now Chennai) for higher studies. While he pursued his academics, his interest in films and storytelling grew, laying the foundation for his entry into the film industry.
Personal Life
Marriage and Family
Krishnam Raju married Shyamala Devi in 1996. The couple had three daughters: Sai Praseedha, Sai Prakeerti, and Sai Pradeepti. Despite his busy career in films and politics, Krishnam Raju was known for being a devoted family man who cherished his time with his loved ones.
Hobbies and Interests
Krishnam Raju had a keen interest in literature and poetry. He often expressed his love for Telugu culture and heritage through his speeches and writings. He also enjoyed farming and spent considerable time on his family’s agricultural lands.
Entry into Cinema
Krishnam Raju made his acting debut in 1966 with the film “Chilaka Gorinka”, directed by K. Pratyagatma. Although the movie didn’t perform well at the box office, it showcased his potential as an actor. His tall stature, rugged looks, and deep voice set him apart from his contemporaries.
Film Career
Krishnam Raju debuted with the movie Chilaka Gorinka (1966) and soon established himself as a versatile actor. Over his five-decade career, he starred in over 180 films, portraying a range of characters.
Notable Films
| Year | Film | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1973 | Krishnaveni | Lead Role |
| 1977 | Amaradeepam | Surendra |
| 1983 | Tandra Paparayudu | Paparayudu |
| 1991 | Bobbili Brahmanna | Lead Role |
| 1994 | Palnati Pourusham | Protagonist |
His robust performances in films like Bhakta Kannappa and Katakatala Rudrayya cemented his “Rebel Star” image.
Awards and Recognition
Krishnam Raju received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:
- Nandi Awards: For his exceptional performances in films like Amara Deepam and Bobilli Brahmanna.
- Filmfare Awards South: Recognized for his stellar acting skills.
- Padma Shri Nominee: Though not officially awarded, he was considered for his contributions to cinema and public life.
Krishnam Raju Net Worth Details
At the peak of his career and until his passing, Krishnam Raju’s net worth was estimated to be around ₹60-70 crore. His wealth stemmed from his acting career, political endeavors, real estate investments, and business ventures.
Sources of Income
- Acting Career
- Krishnam Raju starred in over 180 films, with many becoming blockbuster hits. He charged premium fees for his roles, especially during the 1970s and 1980s when he was at the height of his career.
- Apart from lead roles, he also appeared in supporting roles in later years, maintaining his relevance in the industry.
- Production Ventures
- He founded Gopi Krishna Movies, a film production house responsible for producing several successful films. This venture added significantly to his earnings.
- Political Career
- As a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Krishnam Raju served as a Union Minister. While political roles don’t directly contribute to wealth, they brought him influence and opportunities to expand his financial portfolio.
- Real Estate
- Krishnam Raju invested heavily in real estate properties across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and other regions. These assets appreciated over time, adding to his wealth.
- Other Business Ventures
- He diversified his income through various business investments, including ventures in the hospitality sector and film distribution.
Assets and Properties
- Residential Properties
- Krishnam Raju owned a luxurious house in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, one of the most upscale neighborhoods in the city. The property’s market value is estimated to be over ₹30 crore.
- He also had ancestral property in Mogalthur, his native village in Andhra Pradesh.
- Vehicles
- He had a fleet of high-end cars, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi models. These vehicles showcased his taste for luxury.
- Farmhouses and Landholdings
- Krishnam Raju was known for his expansive farmhouses on the outskirts of Hyderabad, which were used for recreational purposes and agriculture.
- Investments in Media
- As a producer and actor, he also held stakes in various media-related businesses.
Notable Achievements in Financial Growth
- Film Royalties and Evergreen Hits
- Films like Bhakta Kannappa, Tandra Paparayudu, and Bobilli Brahmanna continued to generate royalties even after decades, contributing to his consistent income.
- Political Influence
- His influential role in politics allowed him to access resources and expand his business network, indirectly boosting his wealth.
- Legacy Contributions
- Through Gopi Krishna Movies, Krishnam Raju not only earned revenue but also promoted new talent in the Telugu industry.
Philanthropy
Despite his immense wealth, Krishnam Raju was known for his generosity. He actively supported charities and helped the underprivileged, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare. His contributions reflect his commitment to giving back to society.
Legacy and Influence
Krishnam Raju’s financial acumen ensured that his family, including his nephew Prabhas, inherited a legacy of not just cinematic excellence but also significant wealth. His entrepreneurial spirit continues to inspire many in the Telugu film industry and beyond.
Political Career
In addition to his illustrious film career, Krishnam Raju was a prominent political figure. He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and was elected as a Member of Parliament from the Narsapur constituency in 1998. His oratory skills, leadership qualities, and dedication to public service earned him widespread respect.
Key Contributions
Philanthropy: Krishnam Raju was deeply involved in social work and actively contributed to the welfare of underprivileged communities in his constituency.
Union Minister: During his tenure in politics, he served as the Union Minister of State for various portfolios, including Defence, External Affairs, and Consumer Affairs.
Legacy and Death
Krishnam Raju passed away on September 11, 2022, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans and colleagues alike. His demise marked the end of an era in Telugu cinema and politics.
About Krishnam Raju
Krishnam Raju was not just a cinematic icon but a compassionate individual dedicated to serving society. His journey from acting to politics is a testament to his multifaceted personality.
Health and Demise
Krishnam Raju faced health issues in his later years. He passed away on September 11, 2022, at the age of 82, leaving a void in the hearts of his fans and admirers.
Things to Know Krishnam Raju
- He was referred to as the “Rebel Star” due to his roles that often challenged societal norms.
- He was deeply involved in philanthropic activities.
- Krishnam Raju was an inspiration to his nephew Prabhas, who is now a pan-Indian superstar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Krishnam Raju
Krishnam Raju was a multifaceted personality who excelled as an actor, producer, and politician. His contributions to Telugu cinema and Indian politics have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire millions. Known for his charisma, talent, and compassion, he remains a cherished figure in the hearts of his fans and followers.
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