Chenchu Lakshmi (1943)
Synopsis: Mythological continuing the often-filmed Vishnu Purana legend of Prahlada and Hiranyakashipa. After the demon Hiranyakashipa is destroyed, Vishnu's (Narayana Rao) consort Lakshmi (Kotnis) takes the earthly form of a chenchu (tribal) to soothe and entice Vishnu out of his rage. Her success, marriage and eventual recognition as the goddess forms the major part of the film. Mainly known for Subburaman's innovative score. For his debut film he drew on Latin American music for the credit sequence and to accompany a tribal dance. Nagaiah plays the tribal woman's father. Cast: Chadalawada Narayana Rao (Vishnu), Kamala Kotnis (Lakshmi), Lanka Satyam, Chittooru Nagaiah, Rushyendramani, Garudachary Lyrics: Samudrala Raghavacharya Music: C.R. Subbaraman, Saluri Rajeswara Rao Cinematography: Jiten Bannerjee Director: S. Soundara Rajan Banner: Tamilnadu Talkies Release Date: 14 January