Comedy is more or less integral part of the Tollywood. There are many movies where comedians are placed in a move just for a comic relief. There are comedians who existed outside the story line as standard actors. In many movies, comedians have become simple "jokers" or "sidekicks" for the hero or anti-hero. In 50's and 60's the Andhra Laurel and Hardy pair - Relangi Venkataramayya and RamanaReddy ensured that they are integral part of the story line - as we have seen in Mayabazaar or Missamma. Relangi became the legend and he is the king of Tollywood comedy.
Progressively, by 1960's the role of comedian got sandwiched between the Hero and Villian. Allu Ramalingaiah moved as side kick for the Anti-Hero. Rajababu or Padmandabham moved towards hero as side kicks.
By 1970's the role of comedians in Telugu movies and their success became negligible. Rajababu and Padmanabham though are standard entries - most of the their performances were only contextual but never legendary.
By 1980's with the arrival of Brahmanandam the whole scene and weight for the comedians changed significantly. Brahmanandam created a trend - and in the course of three decades he truly became a legend. One striking similarity between Relangi and Brahmanandam is their facial expressions to make audience relax. And their innovative performances.
Perhaps it is not a understatement - that just because of Brahmanandam performance, many movies have become super hits. Actually the brand value of Brahmanandam in Tollywood goes beyond many "heroes".
Every hero or heroine would have a segment of followers and critics. But everyone is a fan for Brahmanandam. That is the power of this Tollywood Super Comedian.
It is fortunate that Telugu community is blessed with such an extraordinarily talented actor. And Padmashri is a fitting tribute to all the laughs and lightness he created in everyone's hearts.
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