J. V. Somayajulu

Jonnalagadda Venkata Somayajulu, an esteemed Indian actor, left an enduring legacy in Telugu cinema, and his versatile contributions extended to Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi films. Born on either 30 July 1920 or around 1928 in Lukalam Agraharam, Srikakulam district, present-day Andhra Pradesh, Somayajulu’s illustrious career spanned five decades in stage dramas, films, and television.

His noteworthy achievements include winning the Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu in 1981 for his stellar performance in the classic “Sankarabharanam.” On the centenary of Indian cinema, Forbes recognized his role in the film among the 25 Greatest Acting Performances of Indian Cinema.

Somayajulu garnered acclaim for his roles in films such as “Allari Pillalu,” “Nelavanka,” “Rowdy Alludu,” “Swathi Muthyam,” “Tyagayya,” “Saptapadi,” “Vijeta,” “Appula Appa Rao,” “Vamsa Vruksham,” and the Hindi film “Jaag Utha Insan.” His portrayal of Sri Raghavendra in the Tamil film “Sri Raghavendrar” showcased his versatility. Additionally, he produced a 13-episode television serial based on Gurazada Apparao’s play “Kanyasulkam” and portrayed A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in the biographical series “Abhay Charan.”

Born into a family where his father served as an Inspector in the Prohibition and Excise department, Somayajulu spent his childhood in Vizianagaram, participating in stage dramas. He later became a Deputy Collector for Mahabub Nagar district. His passion for Gurazada Apparao’s play “Kanyasulkam” led him to perform it around 500 times over 45 years alongside his brother J V Ramana Murthy.

For the advancement of Telugu theatre in Hyderabad and Secunderabad, Somayajulu established ‘Rasaranjani’ along with contemporaries like Chatla Sriramulu, Garimella Rama Murthy, and Rallapalli. He also contributed to the Directorate of Cultural Affairs before retiring from government service.

Somayajulu, a dedicated artist and family man, left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and theater. His death in 2004, attributed to a heart attack, marked the end of an era, but his contributions continue to be celebrated, and his impact on Telugu entertainment remains unparalleled.