Gundamma Katha is a endless 1962 Telugu family comedy-drama, widely celebrated as a golden classic of the industry. Produced by Nagi Reddy and Chakrapani under the prestigious Vijaya Productions banner and directed by Kamalakara Kameswara Rao, the film boasts an ensemble cast and iconic music.
Star-Studded Cast and Key Roles
The movie features the legendary duo of Telugu cinema, N. T. Rama Rao (NTR) and Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), whose on-screen chemistry was highly lauded. Actor – Role|Suryakantham as Gundamma — N. T. Rama Rao (NTR) as Anji –A. Nageswara Rao (ANR) Raja—Savithri as Laxmi –Jamuna as Saroja.The supporting cast includes Relangi, Ramana Reddy, Chalam, and Haranath.
Story line: Comedy, Drama, and Reformation
The story revolves around Gundamma (Suryakantham), a wealthy, widowed matriarch known for her arrogance and extreme partiality. She treats her humble, patient stepdaughter, Laxmi (Savithri), with disdain, while heavily pampering her own spoiled daughter, Saroja (Jamuna). The narrative takes a turn with the entry of two brothers, Anji (NTR) and Raja (ANR). Deciding to challenge Gundamma’s prejudiced nature, they enter her life under disguises to test the true character of the daughters. Through a series of comedic and dramatic events, the brothers eventually succeed. The film concludes on a heartwarming note as Gundamma realizes her folly and reforms her ways, leading to the happy union of the two couples: Anji and Laxmi, and Raja and Saroja.
Musical Legacy
The film’s music, composed by the maestro Ghantasala, is an evergreen musical hit in Telugu cinema. The lyrics were penned by Samudrala Jr. Every song from the soundtrack became immensely popular, cementing its status as a landmark musical. Popular Songs Include: “Lechindi Nidra Lechindi Mahila Lokam”, “Kolo Kolo Yanna Kolo Naa Saami”, “Prema Yatralaku Brundavanam – Nandanam Elano”, “Aligina Velane Chudali – Gokula Krishnuni Andaalu”
Significance and Impact
Suryakantham’s portrayal of Gundamma is perhaps the film’s most memorable aspect. Her role as the dominating yet comedic mother became legendary and solidified her reputation. Beyond its comedic value, Gundamma Katha is remembered for its theme of social reform and family values, and its brilliant combination of the two biggest stars of the era, NTR and ANR.
Principle Correspondent, Prime Post
Vidya Sagar Chaturvedula is a passionate film enthusiast whose four-decade career spans multiple sectors, including media and industry. Fluent in Telugu, Hindi, and English, he has a deep appreciation for cinema, particularly films in those three languages. His passion goes beyond simple viewing; he enjoys analyzing directional skill, the emotional depth of actors’ performances, and the profound meaning embedded in dialogue. Mr. Sagar is known for his ability to clearly articulate and narrate his insightful film analyses after watching a movie.
Gundamma Katha is around Suryakantham, known as gundakka. A true comedy and family entertainer. The story runs around two families. Hilarious action by Gundamma ang Gantaih. A must watch for all.
Thank You Meena. It’s nice.
Gundamma Katha is around gundakka. A true comedy and family entertainer. The story runs around two families. Very hilarious action by Gundamma and Gundakka. A must watch for all.
Undoubtedly one of the top Telugu movie liked by every Telugu speaking people. Adorable entertainment was given from this movie in those times, it is good classic, humorous family drama movie and very well performed by NTR, ANR, Savitri, Jamuna and one and only Suryakantham. Those days were referred as golden times of Telugu movies. Good review.
Well Said Aruna. Thank You.
Such an entertainer as a spellbound. good review.
Sagar ji Very good Review & Really it’s so nice.
Thank You Very Much Venkat Sir.
I watched this movie so many times. It is really time less classic.
The storyline is a mix of Cinderella and Shakespeare’s Taming the Shrew which is woven into Telugu scenario.
Evergreen songs and strong , humorous dialogues made popular sentiments and the movie a hit.
The individual performances though were average the overall product was superb.
Classic movie
Evergreen classic Telugu movie. Great ANR and NTR lead roles but movie name based on Suryakantham – Gundamma.
Gundamma Katha is based partially on William Shakespeare’s play The Taming of the Shrew.
Great movie and great review.
Gundamma katha one of the Telugu classic movies of all time with humourous story.ANR and NTR as brothers and Mahanati and Jamuna as sisters and above all Suryakantham as Gundakka at their best All songs are evergreen