Watch Sankarabharanam

Sankarabharanam is a 1980 Indian Telugu-language musical drama film directed by K. Vishwanath and produced by Edida Nageswara Rao. The film tells the story of a classical musician named Shankar, played by J.V. Somayajulu, who despite coming from a family of musicians, has a hard time finding success due to his lack of interest in commercial music.

The film begins with Shankar returning to his hometown after several years of living in the city. He shuns commercial success and instead focuses solely on pursuing the perfection of classical music. He meets a young dancer named Tulasi, played by Tulasi, and forms a bond with her, despite their differing opinions on music.

Shankar's life takes a dramatic turn when he is mistaken for a thief and is arrested. While in jail, he meets a criminal named Gaffoor, played by Chandra Mohan, who is a fan of Shankar's music. Through their conversations, Shankar discovers that Gaffoor is a kind and sensitive man who was forced into a life of crime due to poverty. The film touches upon the themes of poverty and its effect on individuals and communities.

The film's music, composed by K. V. Mahadevan, is a highlight of the movie. The music is rooted in traditional South Indian classical music, and the songs are beautifully picturized. The song "Pandaga Chesko" has become an iconic piece of Indian cinema and is still remembered and loved by audiences today. J.V. Somayajulu's portrayal of Shankar has been lauded as one of the finest performances in Indian cinema, and he won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his role.

Sankarabharanam also touches upon social issues such as caste discrimination, which was highly prevalent in Indian society at that time. Through the character of Shankar's father, played by Allu Ramalingaiah, the film shows how casteism can destroy the artistic spirit of individuals.

Manju Bhargavi, who played the role of Tulasi, gives a nuanced performance as a young woman torn between her love for Shankar and her loyalty to her own beliefs. She is both charming and vulnerable, and her dance sequences are a joy to watch.

The film's cinematography by P. S. Nivas is another highlight, with its use of vibrant colors and beautiful framing. The film's climax, shot in a temple, is a breathtaking visual experience, and the music and visuals come together to create a stunning moment in Indian cinema.

Sankarabharanam's impact on Indian cinema cannot be overstated. It won several awards and accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. The film brought South Indian classical music to the mainstream, and its influence can still be seen in modern Bollywood films.

In conclusion, Sankarabharanam is a masterpiece of Indian cinema. It is a deeply moving and visually stunning film that explores the complexities of human relationships and the power of music to transcend societal barriers. The film's music, cinematography, performances, and themes are all seamlessly woven together to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Sankarabharanam is a 1979 romance movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 23 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.9.