Ranadheera Kantheerava is a 1960 Kannada-language historical drama biographical film directed by the editor-turned-director N. C. Rajan and written by G. V. Iyer.[1] It is one of the most popular films of acclaimed Kannada actor Rajkumar, who plays the role of an emperor Kanthirava Narasaraja I of the Wodeyar dynasty, Mysore who was fondly named as Ranadheera Kantheerava.[2] The film depicts the life of Kantheerava, who is known for his immense physical strength through wrestling. The movie was credited to be one of the most authentic historical films made [3] since it was entirely based on the documents found in the Mysore Palace.[4] The film also stars Udaykumar, Balakrishna, Leelavathi, Narasimharaju and Sandhya in the prominent roles.[5]
The film was released at a time during the severe crisis in the Kannada film industry due to the financial constraints. This film was produced through a co-operative forum called Kannada Chalanachitra Kalavidara Sangha formed by actors Rajkumar, Balakrishna, Narasimharaju and acclaimed writer G. V. Iyer. Thus this was the first venture where Rajkumar turned producer for the film.[6] Post release, the film suffered an initial hitch as no distributor came forward to screen the film.[7] Later it was released in a single theatre - Bharath and found huge collections.[8] The film is considered the first blockbuster of Kannada cinema.[9] This film was screened at IFFI 1992.