Raghavendra(2003)
Raghavendra is a 2003 Indian Telugu-language action film directed by Suresh Krishna and written by Posani Krishna Murali. The film stars Prabhas, Anshu, and Shweta Agarwal in lead roles. The story follows Raghava, a hot-blooded youth who fights injustice in his city until a don kills his lover, forcing him to become a devotee of the saint Raghavendra Swamy in Mantralayam. The film explores the conflict between faith and vengeance when evil follows him to the holy town. Prabhas's performance was praised by critics, though the film received mixed reviews overall. The music was composed by Mani Sharma. The film was later dubbed in Hindi as Sanyasi: The Warrior Saint and in Malayalam as Sakthi.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube, aha, Prime Video, Hungama Play
- Theatrical Release
- 28 March 2003
- Director
- Suresh Krishna
- Language
- Telugu
- Runtime
- 2h 31m
- Rating
- 7.5/10
Storyline
Raghava is a restless young man who cannot tolerate injustice. He fights a local don named Ankineedu, who responds by killing Raghava's lover. Forced by his parents, Raghava gives up fighting and becomes a saint-like devotee in Mantralayam. But when Ankineedu's goons follow him and humiliate his new fiancé, Raghava must choose between his peaceful vows and his duty to protect the innocent.
“From saint to warrior — justice demands action.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Raghavendra
Cast reunions in this film: Kota Srinivasa Rao & Brahmanandam (90 films together), Brahmanandam & Raghu Babu (54 films together), Kota Srinivasa Rao & Raghu Babu (19 films together), Suresh Krishna & Suresh Krissna (19 films together), Simran & Brahmanandam (7 films together), and Brahmanandam & Prabhas (7 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Raghavendra Swamy' but was shortened to 'Raghavendra' before release.
- This was Prabhas's second film as a lead actor, following his debut in 'Eeswar'.
- Director Suresh Krissna was known for Tamil hits like 'Baasha' and this was one of his few Telugu films.
- The movie's climax was shot at the real Mantralayam temple, a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Raghavendra Swamy.
- Actress Anshu, who played Sirisha, was a former Miss India finalist and this was one of her earliest Telugu roles.
- The soundtrack by composer Mani Sharma included a devotional song that gained popularity in temple towns.
- Despite being an action drama, the film heavily promoted the spiritual message of the Raghavendra Swamy mutt.