Badipanthulu is one of those rare films which showcased Sr.NTR in a low–profile role and extremely balanced acting. The film is one unique masterpiece which features some great performances and brilliant acting sequences. It was much appreciated by Women Audience of that age for the sentiment it offered.
Raghava Rao (Sr.NTR) is a retired school teacher who lives with high moral values throughout his life. His wife Janaki (Anjali Devi) follows her husband’s ideals sincerely. The couple has two sons Venu (Krishnam Raju) and Satyam (Ramakrishna). Out of affection for their teacher, Raghava Rao’s students build him a house and gift it to their teacher. After retirement, Raghava Rao and his wife get forced to live with their sons. The sons sell this special house against their parents wish and even separate the old couple. Meanwhile Ramu (Jaggaiah) is a student of Raghava Rao and becomes a successful police officer. Knowing this sad story, he gets the special house in auction and gifts it to his teacher.
Trade
Sr.NTR is fantastic as a morally strong teacher and a considerate family man. The balanced performance he gave made it one of the best films in his career. Anjali Devi wonderfully compliments Sr.NTR as his wife in emotional scenes. Jagayya, Krishnam Raju and Ramakrishna etc., acted well in their respective roles. Star Herione Sridevi acted as Raghava Rao’s granddaughter in the film.
Highlights
Music by K.V.Mahadevan gives the right mileage for the emotional quotient of the film. Bharata Mataku Jejelu is one most remembered song from the film. Lyrics by veteran poets like Athreya, Arudra, C.Narayana Reddy and Dasaradhi are like foundations for the film’s theme. Direction by P.Chandrasekhara Reddy is another asset for such serious subject.