Lights, camera, action! India boasts the world's biggest film industry, and the Telugu film industry takes center stage with its remarkable contributions. Tollywood has been unleashing a barrage of captivating stories and producing a plethora of movies that leave a lasting impact on the silver screen. But it's not just the content and scripts that have us hooked. We have to give a shout-out to the extraordinary female directors of Tollywood who have shattered the glass ceiling and redefined Indian cinema with their outstanding movies. From the last half-century up to the present day, we're excited to present a list of these trailblazing women who have held their own and have left an indelible mark on the film industry.
Vijaya Nirmala
Meet Vijay Nirmala, the multi-talented powerhouse of Telugu cinema! Not only is she an actress, but she's also a director and producer, with a filmography that spans decades. From her early work on "Meena" in 1971 to her later projects like "Moodu Puvvulu Aaru Kaayalu" in 1979, "Prajala Manishi" in 1990, "Yes Nenante Nene" in 1994, and "Puttinti Gowravam" in 1996, Vijay Nirmala has proved her versatility and skill time and time again. In fact, she even holds a coveted spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for the number of films she's been a part of. It's no wonder that she's considered one of the most talented women directors in Tollywood!
Bhanumathi
Bhanumathi: a name that embodies the power of a woman's perspective in storytelling. This remarkable figure was not just a filmmaker, but also an actress, music composer, singer, and lyricist - truly a jack of all trades! Her talent and versatility inspired the likes of Jamuna and Savitri in the Telugu film industry, earning her the affectionate nickname "Ashtavadani" for her ability to juggle eight tasks simultaneously. Bhanumathi's directorial debut came in 1939 with "Vara Vikrayam," but it was in 1953's "Chandirani" that she truly made her mark as a director. In fact, she made history as the first-ever female director in all of Indian cinema. Her incredible legacy is a testament to the transformative power of women in film.
Nandini Reddy
Nandini Reddy is a rare gem among the female filmmakers in Tollywood, and her talent is undeniable. She began her career as an assistant director on the delightful children's film "Little Soldiers" in 1996, but it was her own creations that truly showcased her skills. Her 2011 film "Ala Modalaindi" is undoubtedly her best work to date, a captivating masterpiece that showcases her incredible talent both as a writer and director. Along with other hits such as "Jabardasth" and "Kalyana Vaibhogame," her films are known for their charming and compelling storylines. Nandini Reddy's remarkable ability to craft an excellent screenplay is a true testament to her vision as a filmmaker.
Suchitra Chandrabose
Meet Suchitra Chandrabose, an extraordinary Indian choreographer whose dance moves have lit up the silver screen! Her uncanny ability to bring unique dance styles to the big screen has made her an unforgettable presence in the film industry. With films like "Aakhari Poratam," "Money," "Gharana Bullodu," "Annamayya," "Jayam Manadera," "Nuvvu Naaku Nachav," and "Manasantha Nuvve," she has left a lasting impression on audiences. But Suchitra is not just a choreographer - she's also a gifted director, with a keen eye for building characters and breathing life into them in a natural, authentic way. Her film "Pallakilo Pellkoothuru," starring Gowtham and Rathi, was a hit at the box office and solidified her place as a true powerhouse in the industry.
Sri Priya
It was a breath of fresh air when one of the most outstanding films of 2014 was directed by a woman. Sripriya proved her mettle as a director with Venkatesh's 'Drushyam', a content-driven suspense thriller that not only won critical acclaim but also excelled at the box office. Sripriya is a familiar face in the film industry, having acted in memorable films like 'Anthuleni Katha', 'Chilakamma Cheppindi', 'Vayasu Pilichindi', 'Bezawada Bebbuli', and 'Kongu Chatu Krishnudu'. She has not only shown her acting skills but also her initiative and courage as a director, breaking gender barriers and making her mark in the male-dominated world of filmmaking.
B Jaya
In an impartial world, B Jaya’s directorial debut ‘Chantigadu’ would be the top-rated romantic entertainer of the year that would boost her career. Unfortunately, the film was labelled as a super hit and Jaya has since made other hit films like ‘Premikulu’, ‘Gundamma Gari Manavadu’, ‘Lovely’ and ‘Vaishakam’. Her films have a range of emotions. They are funny and sad, insightful and light, idealistic and commercial, and hence she’s right up there with the very best female filmmakers.
Sudha Kongara
Sudha Kongara Prasad Profesionally known as Sudha Kongara is an Indian film director and screenwriter who predominantly works in Tamil cinema. She made her directorial debut with the Telugu film Andhra Andagadu in 2008, and later directed the Tamil film Drohi. In 2016, she directed the bilingual Irudhi Suttru (Saala Khadoos in Hindi) for which she won the Filmfare Award for Best Director – Tamil. In 2020, she scripted, and directed Soorarai Pottru which was nominated for the Best Foreign Film at the 78th Golden Globe Awards.
Sanjana Reddy
Needing a break from being a journalist, Sanjana Reddy landed at Ram Gopal Varma's office one day and was offered to assist him on the movie Rowdy. Sanjana Reddy is known for Karnam Malleswari Biopic (2021) and Raju Gadu (2018).
Lakshmi Sowjanya
Lakshmi Sowjanya is an Indian film director known for her works in the Telugu film industry. She made her directorial debut with the Telugu movie Varudu Kaavalenu starring Naga Shaurya, Ritu Varma. Before coming into movies, she worked as a newsreader in the media. She also directed Tv serials and Ads. She worked with director Sekhar Kammula for the Godavari movie.
Gowri Ronanki
On this Women's Day, we celebrate the achievements of Gowri Ronanki, one of the most talented and versatile directors in the Telugu film industry. She made her directorial debut with the heartwarming romantic drama, 'Pelli SandaD', which touched the hearts of audiences and critics alike. With a wealth of experience working with legendary director K Raghavendra Rao on several films, Gowri Ronanki has honed her craft and brought her unique vision to the silver screen. Her directorial style is marked by a deft handling of emotions, a keen eye for detail, colourful and a commercial screenplay. Gowri Ronanki is now gearing up to embark on an exciting new project, and we can't wait to see what she has in store for us. With her impeccable track record and incredible talent, we have no doubt that she will continue to leave her mark on the Telugu film industry. So let's all join together in welcoming this incredible filmmaker on Women's Day, and celebrate the contributions that women like her are making to the world of cinema.