New Delhi: Across the realms of cinema, both on the big screen and the small screen, the epic struggle between Lord Rama and Ravan, the king of Lanka, has been eloquently brought to life by various filmmakers. Numerous actors have taken on the roles of both Ram and Ravan, but only one has the distinction of successfully portraying both characters.
As Dussehra 2025 approaches, it is noteworthy to spotlight the unique actor who has embodied both Ram and Ravan with exceptional intensity: Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, also known as NT Rama Rao. A former South Indian superstar and the grandfather of Junior NTR, he is the sole actor to have assumed both roles in cinematic history.
NT Rama Rao first depicted Ravan in the 1958 film Bhookailas, though the film did not make a lasting impact. He revisited the character in the 1961 film Sita Rama Kalyanam. A few years later, in 1963, he took on the role of Lord Ram in Lava Kusha.
Renowned for his prowess in portraying mythological characters, NT Rama Rao garnered immense popularity during the 1960s and 1970s. His performances in numerous mythological films won the admiration of Telugu audiences. Besides Ram and Ravan, he also portrayed Lord Krishna in approximately 17 films, solidifying his reputation as a ‘divine’ figure among his fans.
His residence in Hyderabad has become a pilgrimage site for admirers. Additionally, throughout the 1970s, several temples were erected in his honor across Andhra Pradesh, housing idols of the characters he portrayed, including Shri Ram and Krishna. However, following the 1970s, his film career shifted focus from mythological representations to more mass-market productions.
