Tollywood, the Telugu-language film industry based in Hyderabad, India, has produced some of the most memorable and impactful movies in Indian cinema. With a rich history of storytelling, remarkable performances, and technological advancements, Tollywood has consistently raised the bar for filmmaking. Here, we explore the top 5 Tollywood films till 2024 that have left an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike.

1. Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017)

Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Cast: Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty, Tamannaah Bhatia

The Baahubali series is a monumental achievement in Indian cinema. Directed by S. S. Rajamouli, these two films have set new standards for grandeur and visual storytelling. "Baahubali: The Beginning" introduced audiences to the kingdom of Mahishmati, where themes of betrayal, loyalty, and heroism are explored. The sequel, "Baahubali: The Conclusion," answered the million-dollar question, "Why did Kattappa kill Baahubali?" Both films received critical acclaim for their ambitious scale, groundbreaking VFX, and compelling narrative. Together, they have redefined the commercial viability and global appeal of Indian cinema.

2. Rangasthalam (2018)

Director: Sukumar
Cast: Ram Charan, Samantha Akkineni, Aadhi Pinisetty, Jagapathi Babu

"Rangasthalam" is a gripping rural drama set in the 1980s. Directed by Sukumar, the film delves into the lives of the residents of a small village, exploring themes of political corruption and social justice. Ram Charan's portrayal of Chitti Babu, a partially hearing-impaired engineer, earned him widespread acclaim. The film's rustic setting, powerful performances, and engaging storyline made it a massive hit, cementing its place as one of the finest films in Tollywood's history.

3. Arjun Reddy (2017)

Director: Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Cast: Vijay Deverakonda, Shalini Pandey

"Arjun Reddy" is a bold and unconventional film that broke many stereotypes in Telugu cinema. Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, the film follows the tumultuous life of a brilliant but hot-headed medical student, Arjun Reddy, played by Vijay Deverakonda. The raw and unfiltered portrayal of Arjun's journey through heartbreak and self-destruction resonated with a wide audience. The film's intense narrative, combined with stellar performances, particularly by Vijay Deverakonda, made it a cultural phenomenon and paved the way for a new wave of realistic storytelling in Tollywood.

4. Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020)

Director: Trivikram Srinivas
Cast: Allu Arjun, Pooja Hegde, Tabu, Jayaram

"Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo" is a family entertainer that blends comedy, drama, and action seamlessly. Directed by Trivikram Srinivas, the film stars Allu Arjun in one of his most charismatic roles as Bantu, a young man who discovers his true identity after being swapped at birth. The film's catchy music, composed by S. Thaman, vibrant visuals, and strong performances by the ensemble cast contributed to its massive success. "Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo" became one of the highest-grossing Telugu films, showcasing the enduring appeal of well-crafted family dramas.

5. RRR (2022)

Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Cast: N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Alia Bhatt, Ajay Devgn

"RRR," another magnum opus by S. S. Rajamouli, brought together two of Tollywood's biggest stars, N. T. Rama Rao Jr. and Ram Charan. The film is a fictionalized account of two freedom fighters, Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem, set against the backdrop of the Indian independence movement. Known for its breathtaking action sequences, elaborate set pieces, and emotional depth, "RRR" captivated audiences worldwide. The film's universal themes of friendship, sacrifice, and resistance, combined with Rajamouli's visionary direction, ensured its place as a modern classic in Tollywood.

Conclusion

Tollywood's journey has been marked by its ability to blend tradition with innovation, creating films that resonate with diverse audiences. The top 5 films listed here have not only entertained but also pushed the boundaries of storytelling and technical excellence in Indian cinema. As Tollywood continues to evolve, these films stand as a testament to the industry's rich legacy and bright future.