Before the 1970s, Telugu cinema was dominated by mythological dramas and family social plays. Superstar Krishna, known for his risk-taking nature, wanted to break this patteren. Inspired by international hits like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and Mackenna’s Gold, he decided to bring the cowboy culture to India. Travelling on a horse through forests and deserts, and using pistols and knives, was a new trend in those days. Mosagallaku Mosagadu (1971) is not just a film and  it is a landmark in Indian cinema that redefined the “mass” hero and introduced an entirely new genre, Revisionist Western to the Indian audience. Directed by K.S.R. Das and starring the legendary “Superstar” Krishna, it remains a cult classic that brought Hollywood’s “Spaghetti Western” aesthetic to the rugged landscapes of India.
Released on August 27, 1971, the movie surprised the film industry with its massive box-office collections. It drew the attention of all audiences, including children, youth, men, and women. The performances by Krishna, Nagabhushanam, Kaikala Satyanarayana, and Vijaya Nirmala were superb. Furthermore, the film was a pioneer in the Western treasure-hunt genre.
A Race for Hidden Gold
Set in the 18th century following the Battle of Bobbili, the story follows Krishna Prasad (Krishna), a daring gunslinger and bounty hunter. The narrative revolves around a legendary lost treasure of the Amaraveedu dynasty. The keys to the treasure are scattered among different people, leading to a high-stakes chase involving treacherous villains, mysterious maps, and gunfights. Krishna’s character is the quintessential “cool” hero fast on the draw, ethically grounded, and always a step ahead of his rivals.
Why It Was a Revolutionary Milestone
Mosagallaku Mosagadu  was a pioneer of technical excellence during its era. It is a First Indian Cowboy Film and it is officially recognized as the first true Western made in India, predating other famous “Dacoit Westerns” like Sholay. To capture the “Wild West” feel, the crew travelled to the exotic Locations like Thar Desert in Rajasthan, Bikaner, and Shimla. It is a of visual style and, from the iconic Stetson hats and leather boots to the holster-belt and cigarillos, Krishna’s look became an overnight sensation, influencing fashion for years. The film is also a music sensation. Adinarayana Rao’s background score captured the whistling tension and operatic scale of Ennio Morricone’s style, making the action sequences feel larger than life.
Legacy and Re-Release
The film was a massive blockbuster, running for over 100 days in multiple centers. It established Krishna as a “Superstar” and a “James Bond/Cowboy” icon of the South. Even today, its influence is so strong that in 2023, a digitally re-mastered 4K version was released in theaters to celebrate Krishna’s birth anniversary, drawing massive crowds of new-age fans who wanted to experience the magic of the original “Mosagadu” (Master Deceiver).
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.
This film Mosagallaku Mosagadu was the film made in Telugu with Actor Krishna as Cowboy. Action seens shooted in this very nice . I think it was picturised in 70 MM screen. Totally this movie brought name, fame and also money to the producers. Good narration about the film.
It is first 70 mm film produced by daring and dashing Super Star Krishna. Collected big revenue. I am big fan of Super Star Krishna. Whatever capacity he is? He does his job and leave the result to the public. I like his attitude. That is where he is successful Super Star.
The Andhra James bond Krishna own production. Mosagallku Mosagadu. The picture is released during our school days and saw the film several times. Fights and photography are very nice. Nagabhushanam ss nagananna acted very well. Picture is a super hit
During olden days Cow boy movie s
Are Papular western movie s
Of late first cow boy movie
On silver screen in Telugu acted by one and one movie Krishnan
Film was super movie this movie aggressive cum comody.
Musiç songs are good.
It was a new page in Telugu cinema. The audience welcomed the new scenes and background. The novelty becomes the hit formula.
Run of the mill but still different movie.Good songs.
Nice movie. Great review.