Suryakantham: The Unforgettable Female Force of Telugu Cinema
Her action as harsh aunt, loving mother and female villain
Suryakantham Peddibhotla was an iconic figure in South Indian cinema, particularly celebrated for her remarkable versatility in nearly 180 Telugu films. She commanded a massive fan following, and her presence alone was often a strong draw for audiences. Her ability to transition seamlessly between contrasting roles—from the notorious “Gayyali Atha” (harsh aunt) to a courteous and devotional housewife, a loving mother, or even a compelling female villain made her extraordinary. Even years after her demise, film lovers fondly remember her masterful performances.
A Master of Contrasting Roles
Suryakantham’s career was defined by roles that left an indelible mark on cinema history:
The Iconic “Gayyali Atha”: Her portrayal of the cruel aunt in films like Sathi Sakkubai earned her the famous moniker, “Gayyali Atha.” In Sathi Sakkubai, her relentless harassment of her daughter-in-law (played by Anjali Devi) was so convincing that viewers of the time would often curse her (known as sapanardhalu) on their way home from the theatre.
Gundamma Katha (Gundakka): This role remains one of her most discussed performances in Telugu households. As the complex step-mother Gundakka, she displayed multiple shades: the harsh matriarch, the woman enduring subtle torment from her daughter-in-law’s relative Chaya Devi, and finally, a mother filled with repentance in the film’s climax.
The Innocent Spouse: In films like Govula Gopanna, she showcased her sensitive side as the innocent housewife of an advocate husband. Her emotional acting while removing her thalibottu (sacred ornament), believing it was necessary for the plot, even though she knew her husband was alive, was widely praised. Similarly, in ‘Muthyalamuggu’, she played an innocent housewife who adored her husband (Rao Gopala Rao), despite his villainous reputation.
Unforgettable Characterizations
Suryakantham also excelled in other memorable characterizations:
Mythological Marvel: In Mayabazar, she delivered a marvelous performance as Hidimbi, the mother of Ghatotkacha. Her tender yet commanding calls of “Puthra – Puthra” of her son and her charming scenes while welcoming Subhadra and Abhimanyu, who were the relatives from her husband Bhima, were highlights of the film.
The Female Villain: Her performance as a female antagonist in the film Srimanthudu was noted for her mind-blowing delivery of dialogues and palpable wickedness, proving her mettle as a versatile villain on par with her male counterparts like S.V. Ranga Rao (SVR). Suryakantham was a cornerstone of many other successful films, including Chakrapani, Dagudu Moothalu, Kanyasulkam, Mangaluya Balam, Santhi Nivasam, Thoti Kodallu, Athma Banduvu, Raktha Sambandham, Siri Sampadalu, and Mooga Manasulu, where her presence added immense flavor to the film’s success.
Accolades and Legacy
Suryakantham’s immense contribution was widely recognized and celebrated. She was honoured with the prestigious ‘Mahanati Savithri’ Award and an Honourable Doctorate from Padmavathi Mahila University in Tirupathi. Various film viewer associations bestowed numerous titles upon her, including: Sahaja Kala Nata Siromani, Bahumukha Natana Praveena and Rangasthala Siromani. The title “Arugalai Maamani” from Tamil film lovers, recognized her impact beyond the Telugu industry. Suryakantham was, without a doubt, a female character actor whose stature and influence in Telugu Cinema were comparable to the legendary S.V. Ranga Rao (SVR). Her legacy endures as the ultimate testament to character acting in Indian cinema.
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.
Aavida poyi 30 yellu kavosthunna, ippatiki gayyali athha ki paryayapadam aina aavida and aavida natana nabhtho nabhavishyathi 🙂
Well Said. True. Thank You Very Much Vibhushan.
I like Suryakantham, all her roles were iconic. She was natural actress. Your review on her is very well written. You are very talented annayya.
Thank You Aruna.
A true actor lives the character of the roles played and very little of the self is retained by the viewers.
Suryakantam Garu was one such personality. A treat to watch no matter how many times one repeated the viewing.
A very dear human being.
Thank You Sir. Well Said.
A typically conflicting roles, belligerence is what the image she obtained in her acting. On the converse, she indeed was a benevolent, affectionate, and had sound knowledge in cooking and finance aptitude. I haven’t watched many of her films though! Gundamma Katha is all time best of her career!
Thank You.
Suryakantam is a house hold name for Gadusu అత్త.
I liked her action especially in films like Mayabajar, Gundammakatha.
Till now no one has replaced her film charecter.
But in reality she is a gentle women,
Who cares for small charecter artists.
Thank You Ravi.
In our B/W movies Era one of the iconic actress Suryakantham garu is a true legend in her own way portraying multiple characters majorly as an torturing mother-in-law role was her speciality. However she did played some positive roles like in MAYABAZAR movie she portrayed as mother of Ghatodhgacha was very awe inspiring. She may be dead now but her roles in TFI movies are immortal & live for ever.
Well Said. Thank You Very Much.
Suryakantham garu was an exceptional actress.she played many dominating and intimidating roles in movies.But in real life she was very kind hearted and helpful.
Very Well Said. Thank You.
Suryakantham Garu was a legendry telugu actress who will be remembered for ever for her dominating roles as mother in law and unmatched comic timing in telugu classic cinemas. Unfortunately, people often remember only popular male actors but articles like this will help keep the memory of the remarkable artists liker her alive.
Suryakantham Garu was a legendry telugu actress who will be remembered for ever for her dominating roles as mother in law and unmatched comic timing in telugu classic cinemas. Unfortunately, people often remember only popular male actors. This article atleast help people to remember her again
Thank You Prabhakar.
Suryakantham garu a great actress. Popular from late fifties., she performed versatile roles. Apart from her career she is know for her kindness, and hospitality. She is prepare many items and share with her co-stars during lunch. With her performances she has become unforgettable memory to many telugu people.