It has been 50 years since Shivaji Raja’s ‘Kallu’ got released. It was released in 1988. The story of the film is based on Gollapudi Maruthi Rao’s ‘Kallu Natakam’. MV Raghu has directed it, while EVV Satyanarayana acted as co-director. Sirivennela Sitarama Sastry has penned lyrics also sang a song ‘Thellarinde’. Megastar Chiranjeevi had given voiceover to the character Rangadu. The film has earned fame and good recognition to many artists and technicians.
Shivaji Raja said, “31 years back, my favourite director senior Vamsi garu has taken me to Kanaka Mahalakshmi Recording Dance. I can’t explain how happy I was then. Then I completed acting course at Madhu Film Institute. EVV Satyanarayana garu suggested me to meet MV Raghu garu as they were making a film ‘Kallu’. First time I went Hyderabad. In the auditions Rajeswari garu and I played the climax scene ‘Kallu’ which I played theatre show in 1983. I was selected for the film within 5 minutes. Raghu garu has moulded the film in a realistic way. I will be indebted to EVV garu forever.”
Hero Srikanth said, “I am very happy that the film ‘Kallu’ has completed 30 years. Shivaji and I have worked together for many films.”
On this occasion, Uttej said, “Some films bring awards to few people, some bring recognition and some will stand out as unforgettable films. Great writer Gollapudi Maruthi Rao garu has provided the story. Though there was no brilliant technology which we have no, the film was made wonderfully by MV Raghu garu. The first shooting I have seen is ‘Kallu’. I am very happy that I was part of this film.”
Suresh Kondeti, Edida Sriram, Anitha Chowdary, Banerjee, Bhikshpathi and Kallu Krishnarao and some others were present at the event.
