The timeless Telugu classic "Mayabazar" is set to enchant audiences once again, with a special re-release in color on May 28th. This grand re-release coincides with the 102nd birth anniversary of the legendary actor N.T. Rama Rao. Balusu Ramarao is orchestrating this cinematic event, bringing the iconic film back to the big screen for a new generation to experience.
Released 68 years ago on March 27, 1957, "Mayabazar" remains an unparalleled masterpiece in Telugu cinema. The film boasts an extraordinary ensemble cast including N.T. Rama Rao (as Lord Krishna), S.V. Ranga Rao (as Ghatotkacha), Savitri (as Sasirekha), Akkineni Nageswara Rao (as Abhimanyu), alongside Relangi, Gummadi, Mukkamala, Mikkilineni, Allu Ramalingayya, R. Nageswara Rao, Suryakantham, and Ramana Reddy.
Produced by Nagi Reddy and Chakrapani under the Vijaya Productions banner, and directed by the visionary K.V. Reddy, "Mayabazar" was a cinematic marvel, a celluloid epic crafted with unparalleled artistry and foresight for its time. Pingali Nagendra Rao's brilliant dialogues and Marcus Bartley's exquisite cinematography brought the film's nine emotional rasas to life on screen. Ghantasala's timeless musical compositions continue to captivate audiences, even across generations.
A grand pre-release event was held for "Mayabazar," attended by distinguished guests including TD Janardhan, Ramesh Prasad, S.V. Krishna Reddy, Achchi Reddy, director Veera Shankar, Bhagiratha, YJ Rambabu, and Tripuraneni Chitti.
Sri T.D. Janardhan, Chairman of the NTR Literature Committee and chief guest at the event, stated, "'Mayabazar' is a milestone for both past and present generations. Even with today's advanced graphics, the film achieved unparalleled success in an era without such technology. Balusu Ramarao's initiative to re-release 'Mayabazar' is commendable." He also lauded NTR as a "king in cinema" and a "pole star who created a sensation in Andhra Pradesh politics," emphasizing that Telugu politics can be categorized as "before NTR and after NTR." He praised NTR as a great man who initiated ethical values, democratic methods, and a welfare era in politics. Janardhan mentioned the formation of the NTR Literature Committee in 2023 to commemorate NTR's centenary, aiming to pass on his noble ideals and principles to future generations through rare publications. He expressed confidence in "Mayabazar's" success and stated that despite his commitment to the Mahanadu on May 28th, he would watch the film with his family the next day, urging everyone to support it.
Ramesh Prasad highlighted the close relationship between his family and NTR's, noting their fathers' significant contributions to the Telugu film industry. He shared that when Balusu Ramarao sought permission to re-release "Mayabazar" on the big IMAX screen, they immediately approved.
S.V. Krishna Reddy remarked, "N.T. Rama Rao Garu is a history, a chapter. We have much to learn from him. 'Mayabazar' is a film that one can watch countless times without tiring." He added that he has already booked two tickets for the IMAX theater on the release day, encouraging everyone to watch it on May 28th.
Achchi Reddy emphasized the responsibility to re-release classic films as a mark of respect to the great personalities who created them. He commended Balusu Ramarao for doing a great job by releasing "Mayabazar" on May 28th, calling it a must-watch for the current generation.
Bhagiratha shared his good fortune of having interviewed NTR, praising his discipline and dedication. He expressed happiness that Ramarao is re-releasing "Mayabazar" on May 28th.
Director Veera Shankar, a close friend of Balusu Ramarao, said he offered advice and suggestions for the re-release. He noted that Balusu Ramarao is demonstrating his devotion to NTR through this effort and sincerely hoped the endeavor would be a great success, urging everyone to watch "Mayabazar" in theaters on May 28th.
Balusu Ramarao, the man behind the re-release, expressed his deep admiration for NTR. "I am a huge fan of Rama Rao Garu, and I had the good fortune to work with him. Out of my devotion to him, I am releasing 'Mayabazar'." He thanked TD Janardhan, Ramesh Prasad, and others for attending, requesting everyone to watch the film on May 28th and bless him.
The event saw participation from various other prominent personalities, including Minister for Cinematography Kandula Durgesh, MP Putta Mahesh, and MLA Radhakrishnaiah, all of whom praised the film and urged audiences to experience it on the big screen. Actresses Anandhi and Aditi Shankar, along with producer KK Radha Mohan and actor Ajay, also shared their excitement, highlighting the film's enduring appeal and the team's passion.
