Hyderabad, Feb 16 (UNI) Veteran actress and producer Chittajallu Krishnaveni passed away at her residence in Film Nagar, Hyderabad, on Sunday morning.
She was 102.
Born on December 24, 1921, in Pangidi, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, Krishnaveni began her artistic journey as a drama performer before transitioning to films.
She made her cinematic debut as a child artist in the 1936 film Sati Anasuya. After relocating to Chennai with her family, she received numerous acting opportunities in both Telugu and Tamil cinema.
Krishnaveni played a pivotal role in the Telugu film industry, notably introducing several iconic figures through her productions. The 1949 film Manadesam marked the debut of legendary actor N T Rama Rao, renowned playback singer Ghantasala, and singer Singer P. Leela.
Additionally, she had the opportunity to act alongside NT Rama Rao in the film. Another legendary actor, Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), was introduced to the industry through her film Keelugurram (1949).
In 1939, Krishnaveni married Mirzapuram Raja, the Zamindar of Mirzapuram, when she was fifteen years old. After his death, she became control of Chennai's Sobhanachala Studios, where she significantly influenced the careers of numerous well-known performers and directors. In order to further support the industry, she later established MRA Productions, which is named after her daughter Meka Rajyalakshmi Anuradha.
Malli Pelli (1939), Bhakta Prahlada (1942), Bhishma (1944), Brahma Ratham (1947), and Gollabhama (1947) are a some of her most well-known roles.
Several members of the film fraternity expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Krishnaveni’s immense contributions to Indian cinema. Her legacy as an actress, producer, and mentor will be remembered for generations. May her soul rest in peace, they added.
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