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{{Short description|Indian film score composer (1921–1973)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2019}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2019}}
{{more citations needed|date=June 2019}}
{{infobox person
{{infobox person
| name              = T. V. Raju
| name              = T. V. Raju
| birth_name        = Thotakura Venkata Raju
| birth_name        = Thotakura Venkata Raju
| birth_date        = 1921
| birth_date        = 25 October 1921
| death_date        = 20 February 1973 (aged 51/52)
| death_date        = 20 February 1973 (aged 51)
| occupation        = music director
| occupation        = Music composer
}}
}}


'''Thotakura Venkata Raju''' ([[Telugu language|Telugu]]: తోటకూర వెంకట రాజు), better known as '''T. V. Raju''' (1921 - 20 February 1973), was a music director of many films in [[South India]].
'''Thotakura Venkata Raju''' (25 October 1921 – 20 February 1973), popularly known as '''T. V. Raju''', was an Indian music composer who predominantly worked in [[Telugu cinema]]. Known for his versatility and significant contributions to both mythological and social drama films, Raju established himself as one of the leading music directors of his time.


He worked as assistant composer to P. Adinarayana Rao in the film ''[[Palletoori Pilla]]'' (1950). He acted in a small role in the same film. His debut film as independent music director was ''Tingu Ranga'' (1952) directed by [[B. A. Subba Rao]]. His music in the films ''[[Panduranga Mahatyam]]'', ''[[Shri Krishna Pandaviyam]]'' and ''[[Sri Krishnavataram]]'' is memorable.{{citation needed|date=April 2016}}
He worked as an assistant composer to [[P. Adinarayana Rao]] in the film ''[[Palletoori Pilla]]'' (1950). He acted in a small role in the same film. His debut film as independent music director was ''Tingu Ranga'' (1952) directed by [[B. A. Subba Rao]]. His music in the films ''[[Panduranga Mahatyam]]'' (1957), ''[[Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam]]'' (1966) and ''[[Sri Krishnavataram]]'' (1967) is memorable. T. V. Raju also proved his mettle as versatile music composer in social drama genre movies similar to 1961 film ''[[Taxi Ramudu]]''. [[Satyam (composer)|Satyam]] assisted him for many films. His association with "NAT Combines" production house, [[N. T. Rama Rao]] films yielded many hits. He even made [[Mohammed Rafi]] sing a song for 1969 film ''[[Bhale Thammudu (1969 film)|Bhale Thammudu]]''.


==Personal life==
== Early life ==
[[Raj–Koti|Thotakura Somaraju]] (better known as Raj and one of the duo-music directors [[Raj–Koti]]) is his son.
Totakura Venkata Raju was born on 25 October 1921 in Raghudevapuram near [[Rajahmundry]] in [[Andhra Pradesh]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Subbarao N |date=2022-02-20 |title=యన్టీఆర్ ఆస్థాన సంగీత దర్శకులు టి.వి.రాజు! |url=https://ntvtelugu.com/movie-news/remembering-legendary-music-director-tv-raju-on-his-death-anniversary-136932.html |access-date=2024-09-28 |website=[[NTV (India)|NTV]] |language=te-IN}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=మన సినీ కీర్తిశిఖరాలు టి.వి.రాజు |url=https://www.gotelugu.com/teluguarticles/view/11002/ |access-date=2024-09-29 |website=Gotelugu.com}}</ref> Raju displayed an early interest in music. Coming from a family with a strong inclination toward the arts, he pursued his musical training in Rajahmundry before moving to [[Chennai|Madras]] (now Chennai) to establish a career in the film industry.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-21 |title=సుస్వరాల ‘ఠీవి’రాజు |url=https://64kalalu.com/t-v-raju-50th-anniversary/ |access-date=2024-09-29 |website=64kalalu |language=en-US}}</ref>
 
== Career ==
In Madras, Raju worked as an assistant to leading music directors of the time. He shared living space with [[N. T. Rama Rao]], [[T. Prakash Rao|Tatineni Prakash Rao]], and M. A. Rahman, all of whom were aspiring to make their mark in cinema. Raju's first major opportunity came when he worked as an associate music director for the film ''[[Palletoori Pilla|Palleturi Pilla]]'' (1950), composed by Adinarayana Rao.<ref name=":0" />
 
T. V. Raju's first break as a full-fledged music composer came with the film ''Tinguranga'', produced by B. A. Subba Rao. His long-standing collaboration with N. T. Rama Rao began with the film ''Pichi Pullayya'', produced under the National Art Theatre (NAT) banner. This partnership grew stronger with Raju composing music for numerous films featuring Rama Rao, including ''Todudongalu'' and ''Jayasimha'' (1955). The success of ''Jayasimha'' marked a turning point in Raju's career, cementing his position as a leading music director.<ref name=":0" />
 
Raju's work is especially remembered for the music in films like ''Panduranga Mahatyam'' (1957), ''Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam'' (1966), and ''Sri Krishnavataram'' (1967), which remain classics in Telugu cinema. He also showcased his talent in social dramas, with films like ''Taxi Ramudu'' (1961). His ability to blend classical and contemporary music made him a versatile composer.<ref name=":0" />
 
One of Raju's notable achievements was bringing renowned Bollywood playback singer Mohammed Rafi to sing for the Telugu film ''Bhale Thammudu'' (1969), further cementing his influence in the industry. Music director Satyam worked as his assistant for many films, contributing to his success.<ref name=":0" />
 
T. V. Raju composed music for over 60 films in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, with a significant number of them starring N. T. Rama Rao. Some of his notable films with NTR include ''Panduranga Mahatyam'', ''Rajanandini'', ''Rechukka Pagatichukka'', ''Indrajit'', ''Taxi Ramudu'', ''Savati Koduku'', ''Mangamma Sapatham'', ''Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam'', ''Pidugu Ramudu'', ''Ummadi Kutumbam'', ''Sri Krishnavataram'', ''Bhale Thammudu'', ''Baghdad Gajadonga'', and ''Kathanayakudu''.<ref name=":0" />
 
Raju's compositions for Rama Rao's productions, including films like ''Srimad Virat Veerabrahmendra Swamy Charitra'' and ''Bhale Thammudu'', were highly successful and showcased his versatility as a composer. He was known for blending northern Indian musical styles with his own distinct touch, creating memorable melodies that resonated with audiences.<ref name=":0" />
 
In addition to his work as a composer, Raju also appeared in small roles in films, such as a spy in ''Palleturi Pilla'' (1950) and a devotee in the song "Krishna Mukunda Murari" from ''Panduranga Mahatyam'' (1957).
 
=== Notable Songs ===
Some of the most memorable songs composed by T. V. Raju include "E Nati Ee Haayi," "Jayakrishna Mukunda Murari" from ''Panduranga Mahatyam'', "Swagatam Suswagatam" from ''Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam'', "Nee Charana Kamalalu" from ''Sri Krishnavataram'', "Telugu Jaati Manadi" from ''Talla Pellama'', and "Neeti Dharmamu" from ''Kodalu Diddina Kaapuram''. These songs continue to be cherished by Telugu music lovers.<ref name=":0" />
 
== Legacy ==
T. V. Raju's contribution to Telugu cinema remains unparalleled, particularly for his collaboration with N. T. Rama Rao, for whom he composed music for around 38 films. Despite his success, Raju maintained close ties with his mentor, Adinarayana Rao, and even worked as an associate composer on ''Suvarna Sundari'', a film scored by Adinarayana Rao.
 
Raju's family continued his musical legacy, with his son Venkata Satyasuryanarayana Raju working as a guitarist in the film industry, and another son, Somaraju, being part of the famous music duo Raj–Koti. T. V. Raju's music is still celebrated today for its unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles.
 
== Personal life ==
In his personal life, Raju married Savitri, and the couple had two sons. Their elder son, Venkata Satya Suryanarayana Raju, became a guitarist, while their younger son, Thotakura Somaraju, better known as Raj from the composer duo [[Raj–Koti]], achieved fame as a music director in Telugu cinema.
 
T. V. Raju had a close friendship with N. T. Rama Rao, with whom he shared living quarters during their early struggles in the film industry.
 
T. V. Raju died on 20 February 1973 at the age of 51, leaving behind a rich legacy as a prolific music composer in South Indian cinema. His contributions to the Telugu film industry, especially his work in mythological and social drama genres, continue to be celebrated.


==Filmography==
==Filmography==
;Telugu
{| class="wikitable"
# Ting Ranga (1952)
|-
# Pichchi Pullaiah (1953)
! Year !! Film !! Language !! Director !! Banner !! Co-Music Directors
# [[Todu Dongalu (1954 film)|Todu Dongalu]] (1954)
|-
# Nirupedalu (1954)
| 1952 || [[Shyamala (1952 film)|''Shyamala'']] || Tamil || [[B. A. Subba Rao]] || Yuva Pictures || [[G. Ramanathan]] & S. B. Thinakar Rao
# [[Jayasimha (1955 film)|Jayasimha]] (1955)
|-
# Chintamani (1956)
| 1952 || [[Shyamala (1952 film)|''Tingu Ranga'']] || Telugu || [[B. A. Subba Rao]] || Yuva Pictures ||
# [[Panduranga Mahatyam (film)|Panduranga Mahatyam]] (1957)
|-
# [[Raja Nandini]] (1958)
| 1953 || ''[[Pichi Pullayya]]'' || Telugu || [[T. Prakash Rao]] || National Art Theatre ||
# Shri Krishna Maya (1958)
|-
# Bala Nagamma (1959)
| 1954 || [[Thodu Dongalu (1954 film)|''Thodu Dongalu'']] || Telugu || [[D. Yoganand]] || National Art Theatre ||
# [[Taxi Ramudu]] (1961)
|-
# Savati Koduku (1963)
| 1954 || ''[[Nirupedalu]]''|| Telugu || [[T. Prakash Rao]] || Gokul Pictures ||
#[[Sri Simhachala Kshetra Mahima]] (1965)
|-
# [[Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam]] (1966)
| 1955 || ''Aada Bidda''|| Telugu || Erra Apparao || Sri VSV Films || [[B. Gopalam]]
# [[Pidugu Ramudu]] (1966)
|-
# [[Bhimanjaneya Yuddham]] (1966)
| 1955 || [[Jayasimha (1955 film)|''Jayasimha'']] || Telugu || [[D. Yoganand]] || National Art Theatre ||
# [[Bhama Vijayam]] (1967)
|-
# Chadarangam (1967)
| 1955 || [[Jayasimha (1955 film)|''Jayasimman'']] || Tamil || [[D. Yoganand]] || National Art Theatre ||
# Kambojaraju Katha (1967)
|-
# [[Shri Krishnavataram]] (1967)
| 1956 || [[Chintamani (1956 film)|''Chintamani'']] || Telugu || [[P. S. Ramakrishna Rao]] || [[Bharani Pictures]] || Addepalli Rama Rao
# [[Ummadi Kutumbam]] (1967)
|-
# [[Tikka Shankaraiah]] (1968)
| 1956 || ''[[Sri Gauri Mahatyam]]''  || Telugu || [[D. Yoganand]] || Mahi Productions || [[Ogirala Ramachandra Rao]]
# [[Baghdad Gajadonga]] (1968)
|-
# Kalisochchina Adrishtam (1968)
| 1956 || [[Sri Gauri Mahatyam|''Mangala Gowri'']]  || Tamil || [[D. Yoganand]] || Mahi Productions || [[Ogirala Ramachandra Rao]]
# [[Nene Monaganni]] (1968)
|-
# [[Varakatnam]] (1968)
| 1957 || ''[[Panduranga Mahatyam]]'' || Telugu || [[Kamalakara Kameswara Rao]] || National Art Theatre ||
# Nindu Hridayalu (1969)
|-
# [[Bhale Tammudu]] (1969)
| 1958 || ''[[Raja Nandini]]'' || Telugu || [[Vedantam Raghavayya]] || Jalaruha Productions ||
# [[Kathanayakudu (1969 film)|Kathanayakudu]] (1969)
|-
# [[Saptaswaralu]] (1969)
| 1958 || ''[[Sri Krishna Maya]]'' || Telugu || [[C. S. Rao]] || Sri Raja Rajeswari Film Company ||
# [[Vichitra Kutumbam]] (1969)
|-
# [[Marina Manishi]] (1970)
| 1959 || [[Raja Rani (1956 film)|''Goppinti Ammayi'']] || Telugu || [[A. Bhimsingh]] || National Productions ||
# Talla Pellamma (1970)
|-
# Chinnanaati Snehithulu (1971)
| 1959 || [[Panduranga Mahatyam|''Annaiyum Pithavum Munnari Dheivam'']] || Tamil || [[Kamalakara Kameswara Rao]] || National Art Theatre ||
# [[Shri Krishnanjaneya Yuddham]] (1972)
|-
# Raja Mahal (1972)
| 1959 || [[Bala Nagamma (1959 film)|''Bala Nagamma'']] || Telugu || [[V. Madhusudhana Rao]] || Sri Venkata Ramana Pictures ||
# Dhanama? Daivama? (1973)
|-
| 1959 || [[Rechukka Pagatichukka|''Raja Sevai'']] || Tamil || [[Kamalakara Kameswara Rao]] || Swastisri Pictures ||
|-
| 1959 || ''[[Rechukka Pagatichukka]]'' || Telugu || [[Kamalakara Kameswara Rao]] || Swastisri Pictures ||
|-
| 1961 || ''Jagadeka Sundari''|| Telugu || [[Shantilal Soni]]  || Rupak Movies  ||
|-
| 1961 || ''Rushyasrunga''|| Telugu || [[Mukkamala (actor)|Mukkamala]] || Geetha Pictures ||
|-
| 1961 || ''[[Taxi Ramudu]]'' || Telugu || R. M. Krishnaswami || Sri Ramakrishna Productions ||
|-
| 1961 || [[Indrajeet (Sati Sulochana)|''Sati Sulochana'']] || Telugu || S. Rajinikanth || Srikanth Productions ||
|-
| 1963 || ''[[Savati Koduku]]'' || Telugu || Y. Ranga Rao || Naveena Chitra || [[Satyam (composer)|Satyam]]
|-
| 1964 || [[Bandha Pasam|''Aadarsa Sodarulu'']] || Telugu || [[A. Bhimsingh]] || Santhi Films ||
|-
| 1964 || ''Neethi - Nijayathi''|| Telugu || T. S. Rama Rao || Pasumarthi Pictures ||
|-
| 1964 || [[Rishyasringar (1964 film)|''Rishyasringar'']] || Tamil || [[Mukkamala (actor)|Mukkamala]] || Geetha Pictures ||
|-
| 1965 || [[Muthu Mandapam|''Adhrusya Hanthakudu'']] || Telugu || [[A. S. A. Sami]]  || Rajendran Pictures || [[K. V. Mahadevan]]
|-
| 1965 || [[En Kadamai|''Gharana Hanthakudu'']] || Telugu || M. Natesan  || Natesh Art Pictures ||
|-
| 1965 || [[Mangamma Sapatham (1965 film)|''Mangamma Sapatham'']] || Telugu || [[B. Vittalacharya]] || D.V.S. Productions ||
|-
| 1965 || ''[[Sri Simhachala Kshetra Mahima]]'' || Telugu || [[B. V. Prasad]] || Sri Saraswati Movies ||
|-
| 1965 || ''[[Visala Hrudayalu]]'' || Telugu || [[B. S. Narayana]] || Gokul Art Pictures||
|-
| 1966 || ''[[Pidugu Ramudu]]'' || Telugu || [[B. Vittalacharya]] || D.V.S. Productions ||
|-
| 1966 || ''[[Bhimanjaneya Yuddham]]'' || Telugu || S. D. Lal || Mahalakshmi Movies ||
|-
| 1966 || ''[[Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam]]'' || Telugu || [[N. T. Rama Rao]] || NAT & [[Ramakrishna Cine Studios]] ||
|-
| 1967 || ''[[Bhama Vijayam]]'' || Telugu || [[C. Pullaiah]] || Shekar Films ||
|-
| 1967 || ''[[Chadarangam]]''|| Telugu ||  [[S. V. Ranga Rao]] ||  SVR Films  ||
|-
| 1967 || [[Chikkadu Dorakadu (1967 film)|''Chikkadu Dorakadu'']] || Telugu || [[B. Vittalacharya]] || Sri Lakshmi Narayana Productions ||
|-
| 1967 || ''Kambojaraju Katha''|| Telugu ||  [[Kamalakara Kameswara Rao]] || Anantalakshmi Productions ||
|-
| 1967 || ''[[Nindu Manasulu]]'' || Telugu ||  S. D. Lal || S.V.S. Films ||
|-
| 1967 || ''Pinni''|| Telugu ||  [[B. A. Subba Rao]] || Srikanth Productions ||
|-
| 1967 || [[Thanippiravi|''Shabhash Ranga'']] || Telugu || [[M. A. Thirumugam]] || [[Thevar Films]] || [[K. V. Mahadevan]]
|-
| 1967 || ''[[Sri Krishnavataram]]'' || Telugu || [[Kamalakara Kameswara Rao]] || Taraka Rama Pictures||
|-
| 1967 || ''[[Ummadi Kutumbam]]'' || Telugu || [[D. Yoganand]] || NAT & [[Ramakrishna Cine Studios]] ||
|-
| 1968 || [[Anubavi Raja Anubavi|''Anubhavinchu Raja Anubhavinchu'']] || Telugu || [[K. Balachander]] || Ayya Films || [[M. S. Viswanathan]]
|-
| 1968 || ''[[Baghdad Gaja Donga]]'' || Telugu || [[D. Yoganand]] || Padma Gowri Pictures ||
|-
| 1968 || [[Andru Kanda Mugam|''Coimbathuru Khaidhi'']] || Telugu || G. Ramakrishnan || New India Productions || [[K. V. Mahadevan]]
|-
| 1968 || ''Devakanya''|| Telugu || K. Hemambharadhara Rao || Sri Chaya Chitra ||
|-
| 1968 || ''[[Kalisochina Adrushtam]]'' || Telugu || [[K. Viswanath]] || S.V.S. Films ||
|-
| 1968 || ''Manasamsaram''|| Telugu || [[C. S. Rao]] || Srikanth Productions ||
|-
| 1968 || ''[[Nene Monaganni]]'' || Telugu || S. D. Lal || Prathima Films ||
|-
| 1968 || ''[[Tikka Sankarayya]]'' || Telugu  || [[D. Yoganand]]  ||  D.V.S. Productions ||
|-
| 1969 || ''Bandhipotu Bhimanna''|| Telugu || M. Mallikharjuna Rao || Bhaskar Pictures  ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Bhale Mastaru]]'' || Telugu || S. D. Lal || Vijayagiri Dhwaja Productions ||
|-
| 1969 || [[Bhale Thammudu (1969 film)|''Bhale Thammudu'']] || Telugu || [[B. A. Subba Rao]] || Tarakarama Pictures ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Chikkamma]]''|| Kannada || R. Sampath ||  S.V.S. Films ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Gandikota Rahasyam]]'' || Telugu || [[B. Vittalacharya]] || D.V.S. Productions ||
|-
| 1969 || [[Operation Jackpot Nalli C.I.D 999|''Goa CID 999'']] || Telugu || [[Dorai–Bhagavan]] || Golden Studio || [[G. K. Venkatesh]]
|-
| 1969 || ''Karpoora Harathi''|| Telugu || V. Ramachandra Rao || Srikanth Productions ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Kadaladu Vadaladu]]'' || Telugu || [[B. Vittalacharya]] || Sri Lakshmi Narayana Combines ||
|-
| 1969 || [[Kathanayakudu (1969 film)|''Kathanayakudu'']] || Telugu || K. Hemambaradhara Rao || Gopala Krishna Productions ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Nindu Hrudayalu]]'' || Telugu || [[K. Viswanath]] || S. V. S. Films ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Saptaswaralu]]''|| Telugu || [[Vedantam Raghavayya]] || Hema Films ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Tara Sasankam]]'' || Telugu || Manapuram Appa Rao || Ramakrishna Pictures ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Varakatnam]]''|| Telugu || [[N. T. Rama Rao]] || [[Ramakrishna Cine Studios|Ramakrishna & NAT Combines]] ||
|-
| 1969 || ''[[Vichitra Kutumbam]]'' || Telugu || [[K. S. Prakash Rao]] || Sriraj Art Films ||
|-
| 1970 || ''[[Kodalu Diddina Kapuram]]'' || Telugu || [[D. Yoganand]] || NAT & [[Ramakrishna Cine Studios]] ||
|-
| 1970 || ''[[Marina Manishi]]'' || Telugu || [[C. S. Rao]] || Srikanth Productions ||
|-
| 1970 || ''Khadga Veera''|| Telugu || G. Vishwanath || Sri Vijayarani Combines ||
|-
| 1970 || ''Raithe Raju''|| Telugu || [[B. Vittalacharya]] || Sri Swarajyalakshmi Productions ||
|-
| 1970 || ''[[Thalla? Pellama?]]'' || Telugu || [[N. T. Rama Rao]] || NAT & [[Ramakrishna Cine Studios]] ||
|-
| 1971 || ''Bhagyavanthudu''|| Telugu || [[C. S. Rao]] || Sagar Films ||
|-
| 1971 || ''[[Chinnanati Snehitulu]]'' || Telugu || [[K. Viswanath]] || D.V.S. Productions ||
|-
| 1971 || ''[[Nindu Dampathulu]]'' || Telugu || [[K. Viswanath]] || S.V.S. Films || Vijaya Krishna Murthy
|-
| 1972 || ''[[Kanimuthu Paappa]]'' || Tamil || [[S. P. Muthuraman]] || Sri Navaneedha Films ||
|-
| 1972 || ''Raj Mahal''|| Telugu || B. Harinarayana || Harikrishna Films ||
|-
| 1972 || ''Rani Yaar Kuzhanthai''|| Tamil || [[D. Yoganand]] || Jupiter Art Pictures ||
|-
| 1972 || ''[[Sri Krishnanjaneya Yuddham]]'' || Telugu || [[C. S. Rao]] || Poornima Pictures ||
|-
| 1973 || ''Bullebbayi Pelli''|| Telugu || K. Krishna Murthy || D.V.S. Productions ||
|-
| 1973 || ''[[Dhanama? Daivama?]]'' || Telugu || [[C. S. Rao]] || D.V.S. Productions ||
|-
| 1974 || ''[[Manushullo Devudu]]'' || Telugu || B. V. Prasad || Sri Bhaskara Chitra || [[S. Hanumantha Rao]]
|-
|}


;Kannada
== References ==
# [[Chikkamma]] (1969)
<references responsive="1"></references>
;Tamil
#''[[Kanimuthu Paappa]]'' (1972)


==External links==
==External links==
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[[Category:Tamil film score composers]]
[[Category:Tamil film score composers]]
[[Category:Indian male film score composers]]
[[Category:Indian male film score composers]]
[[Category:20th-century male musicians]]
[[Category:20th-century male composers]]
 
 
{{india-film-bio-stub}}

Latest revision as of 10:33, 1 October 2025


T. V. Raju
Born
Thotakura Venkata Raju

25 October 1921
Died20 February 1973 (aged 51)
OccupationMusic composer

Thotakura Venkata Raju (25 October 1921 – 20 February 1973), popularly known as T. V. Raju, was an Indian music composer who predominantly worked in Telugu cinema. Known for his versatility and significant contributions to both mythological and social drama films, Raju established himself as one of the leading music directors of his time.

He worked as an assistant composer to P. Adinarayana Rao in the film Palletoori Pilla (1950). He acted in a small role in the same film. His debut film as independent music director was Tingu Ranga (1952) directed by B. A. Subba Rao. His music in the films Panduranga Mahatyam (1957), Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam (1966) and Sri Krishnavataram (1967) is memorable. T. V. Raju also proved his mettle as versatile music composer in social drama genre movies similar to 1961 film Taxi Ramudu. Satyam assisted him for many films. His association with "NAT Combines" production house, N. T. Rama Rao films yielded many hits. He even made Mohammed Rafi sing a song for 1969 film Bhale Thammudu.

Early life[edit | edit source]

Totakura Venkata Raju was born on 25 October 1921 in Raghudevapuram near Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh.[1][2] Raju displayed an early interest in music. Coming from a family with a strong inclination toward the arts, he pursued his musical training in Rajahmundry before moving to Madras (now Chennai) to establish a career in the film industry.[1][3]

Career[edit | edit source]

In Madras, Raju worked as an assistant to leading music directors of the time. He shared living space with N. T. Rama Rao, Tatineni Prakash Rao, and M. A. Rahman, all of whom were aspiring to make their mark in cinema. Raju's first major opportunity came when he worked as an associate music director for the film Palleturi Pilla (1950), composed by Adinarayana Rao.[1]

T. V. Raju's first break as a full-fledged music composer came with the film Tinguranga, produced by B. A. Subba Rao. His long-standing collaboration with N. T. Rama Rao began with the film Pichi Pullayya, produced under the National Art Theatre (NAT) banner. This partnership grew stronger with Raju composing music for numerous films featuring Rama Rao, including Todudongalu and Jayasimha (1955). The success of Jayasimha marked a turning point in Raju's career, cementing his position as a leading music director.[1]

Raju's work is especially remembered for the music in films like Panduranga Mahatyam (1957), Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam (1966), and Sri Krishnavataram (1967), which remain classics in Telugu cinema. He also showcased his talent in social dramas, with films like Taxi Ramudu (1961). His ability to blend classical and contemporary music made him a versatile composer.[1]

One of Raju's notable achievements was bringing renowned Bollywood playback singer Mohammed Rafi to sing for the Telugu film Bhale Thammudu (1969), further cementing his influence in the industry. Music director Satyam worked as his assistant for many films, contributing to his success.[1]

T. V. Raju composed music for over 60 films in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, with a significant number of them starring N. T. Rama Rao. Some of his notable films with NTR include Panduranga Mahatyam, Rajanandini, Rechukka Pagatichukka, Indrajit, Taxi Ramudu, Savati Koduku, Mangamma Sapatham, Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam, Pidugu Ramudu, Ummadi Kutumbam, Sri Krishnavataram, Bhale Thammudu, Baghdad Gajadonga, and Kathanayakudu.[1]

Raju's compositions for Rama Rao's productions, including films like Srimad Virat Veerabrahmendra Swamy Charitra and Bhale Thammudu, were highly successful and showcased his versatility as a composer. He was known for blending northern Indian musical styles with his own distinct touch, creating memorable melodies that resonated with audiences.[1]

In addition to his work as a composer, Raju also appeared in small roles in films, such as a spy in Palleturi Pilla (1950) and a devotee in the song "Krishna Mukunda Murari" from Panduranga Mahatyam (1957).

Notable Songs[edit | edit source]

Some of the most memorable songs composed by T. V. Raju include "E Nati Ee Haayi," "Jayakrishna Mukunda Murari" from Panduranga Mahatyam, "Swagatam Suswagatam" from Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam, "Nee Charana Kamalalu" from Sri Krishnavataram, "Telugu Jaati Manadi" from Talla Pellama, and "Neeti Dharmamu" from Kodalu Diddina Kaapuram. These songs continue to be cherished by Telugu music lovers.[1]

Legacy[edit | edit source]

T. V. Raju's contribution to Telugu cinema remains unparalleled, particularly for his collaboration with N. T. Rama Rao, for whom he composed music for around 38 films. Despite his success, Raju maintained close ties with his mentor, Adinarayana Rao, and even worked as an associate composer on Suvarna Sundari, a film scored by Adinarayana Rao.

Raju's family continued his musical legacy, with his son Venkata Satyasuryanarayana Raju working as a guitarist in the film industry, and another son, Somaraju, being part of the famous music duo Raj–Koti. T. V. Raju's music is still celebrated today for its unique blend of traditional and contemporary styles.

Personal life[edit | edit source]

In his personal life, Raju married Savitri, and the couple had two sons. Their elder son, Venkata Satya Suryanarayana Raju, became a guitarist, while their younger son, Thotakura Somaraju, better known as Raj from the composer duo Raj–Koti, achieved fame as a music director in Telugu cinema.

T. V. Raju had a close friendship with N. T. Rama Rao, with whom he shared living quarters during their early struggles in the film industry.

T. V. Raju died on 20 February 1973 at the age of 51, leaving behind a rich legacy as a prolific music composer in South Indian cinema. His contributions to the Telugu film industry, especially his work in mythological and social drama genres, continue to be celebrated.

Filmography[edit | edit source]

Year Film Language Director Banner Co-Music Directors
1952 Shyamala Tamil B. A. Subba Rao Yuva Pictures G. Ramanathan & S. B. Thinakar Rao
1952 Tingu Ranga Telugu B. A. Subba Rao Yuva Pictures
1953 Pichi Pullayya Telugu T. Prakash Rao National Art Theatre
1954 Thodu Dongalu Telugu D. Yoganand National Art Theatre
1954 Nirupedalu Telugu T. Prakash Rao Gokul Pictures
1955 Aada Bidda Telugu Erra Apparao Sri VSV Films B. Gopalam
1955 Jayasimha Telugu D. Yoganand National Art Theatre
1955 Jayasimman Tamil D. Yoganand National Art Theatre
1956 Chintamani Telugu P. S. Ramakrishna Rao Bharani Pictures Addepalli Rama Rao
1956 Sri Gauri Mahatyam Telugu D. Yoganand Mahi Productions Ogirala Ramachandra Rao
1956 Mangala Gowri Tamil D. Yoganand Mahi Productions Ogirala Ramachandra Rao
1957 Panduranga Mahatyam Telugu Kamalakara Kameswara Rao National Art Theatre
1958 Raja Nandini Telugu Vedantam Raghavayya Jalaruha Productions
1958 Sri Krishna Maya Telugu C. S. Rao Sri Raja Rajeswari Film Company
1959 Goppinti Ammayi Telugu A. Bhimsingh National Productions
1959 Annaiyum Pithavum Munnari Dheivam Tamil Kamalakara Kameswara Rao National Art Theatre
1959 Bala Nagamma Telugu V. Madhusudhana Rao Sri Venkata Ramana Pictures
1959 Raja Sevai Tamil Kamalakara Kameswara Rao Swastisri Pictures
1959 Rechukka Pagatichukka Telugu Kamalakara Kameswara Rao Swastisri Pictures
1961 Jagadeka Sundari Telugu Shantilal Soni Rupak Movies
1961 Rushyasrunga Telugu Mukkamala Geetha Pictures
1961 Taxi Ramudu Telugu R. M. Krishnaswami Sri Ramakrishna Productions
1961 Sati Sulochana Telugu S. Rajinikanth Srikanth Productions
1963 Savati Koduku Telugu Y. Ranga Rao Naveena Chitra Satyam
1964 Aadarsa Sodarulu Telugu A. Bhimsingh Santhi Films
1964 Neethi - Nijayathi Telugu T. S. Rama Rao Pasumarthi Pictures
1964 Rishyasringar Tamil Mukkamala Geetha Pictures
1965 Adhrusya Hanthakudu Telugu A. S. A. Sami Rajendran Pictures K. V. Mahadevan
1965 Gharana Hanthakudu Telugu M. Natesan Natesh Art Pictures
1965 Mangamma Sapatham Telugu B. Vittalacharya D.V.S. Productions
1965 Sri Simhachala Kshetra Mahima Telugu B. V. Prasad Sri Saraswati Movies
1965 Visala Hrudayalu Telugu B. S. Narayana Gokul Art Pictures
1966 Pidugu Ramudu Telugu B. Vittalacharya D.V.S. Productions
1966 Bhimanjaneya Yuddham Telugu S. D. Lal Mahalakshmi Movies
1966 Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam Telugu N. T. Rama Rao NAT & Ramakrishna Cine Studios
1967 Bhama Vijayam Telugu C. Pullaiah Shekar Films
1967 Chadarangam Telugu S. V. Ranga Rao SVR Films
1967 Chikkadu Dorakadu Telugu B. Vittalacharya Sri Lakshmi Narayana Productions
1967 Kambojaraju Katha Telugu Kamalakara Kameswara Rao Anantalakshmi Productions
1967 Nindu Manasulu Telugu S. D. Lal S.V.S. Films
1967 Pinni Telugu B. A. Subba Rao Srikanth Productions
1967 Shabhash Ranga Telugu M. A. Thirumugam Thevar Films K. V. Mahadevan
1967 Sri Krishnavataram Telugu Kamalakara Kameswara Rao Taraka Rama Pictures
1967 Ummadi Kutumbam Telugu D. Yoganand NAT & Ramakrishna Cine Studios
1968 Anubhavinchu Raja Anubhavinchu Telugu K. Balachander Ayya Films M. S. Viswanathan
1968 Baghdad Gaja Donga Telugu D. Yoganand Padma Gowri Pictures
1968 Coimbathuru Khaidhi Telugu G. Ramakrishnan New India Productions K. V. Mahadevan
1968 Devakanya Telugu K. Hemambharadhara Rao Sri Chaya Chitra
1968 Kalisochina Adrushtam Telugu K. Viswanath S.V.S. Films
1968 Manasamsaram Telugu C. S. Rao Srikanth Productions
1968 Nene Monaganni Telugu S. D. Lal Prathima Films
1968 Tikka Sankarayya Telugu D. Yoganand D.V.S. Productions
1969 Bandhipotu Bhimanna Telugu M. Mallikharjuna Rao Bhaskar Pictures
1969 Bhale Mastaru Telugu S. D. Lal Vijayagiri Dhwaja Productions
1969 Bhale Thammudu Telugu B. A. Subba Rao Tarakarama Pictures
1969 Chikkamma Kannada R. Sampath S.V.S. Films
1969 Gandikota Rahasyam Telugu B. Vittalacharya D.V.S. Productions
1969 Goa CID 999 Telugu Dorai–Bhagavan Golden Studio G. K. Venkatesh
1969 Karpoora Harathi Telugu V. Ramachandra Rao Srikanth Productions
1969 Kadaladu Vadaladu Telugu B. Vittalacharya Sri Lakshmi Narayana Combines
1969 Kathanayakudu Telugu K. Hemambaradhara Rao Gopala Krishna Productions
1969 Nindu Hrudayalu Telugu K. Viswanath S. V. S. Films
1969 Saptaswaralu Telugu Vedantam Raghavayya Hema Films
1969 Tara Sasankam Telugu Manapuram Appa Rao Ramakrishna Pictures
1969 Varakatnam Telugu N. T. Rama Rao Ramakrishna & NAT Combines
1969 Vichitra Kutumbam Telugu K. S. Prakash Rao Sriraj Art Films
1970 Kodalu Diddina Kapuram Telugu D. Yoganand NAT & Ramakrishna Cine Studios
1970 Marina Manishi Telugu C. S. Rao Srikanth Productions
1970 Khadga Veera Telugu G. Vishwanath Sri Vijayarani Combines
1970 Raithe Raju Telugu B. Vittalacharya Sri Swarajyalakshmi Productions
1970 Thalla? Pellama? Telugu N. T. Rama Rao NAT & Ramakrishna Cine Studios
1971 Bhagyavanthudu Telugu C. S. Rao Sagar Films
1971 Chinnanati Snehitulu Telugu K. Viswanath D.V.S. Productions
1971 Nindu Dampathulu Telugu K. Viswanath S.V.S. Films Vijaya Krishna Murthy
1972 Kanimuthu Paappa Tamil S. P. Muthuraman Sri Navaneedha Films
1972 Raj Mahal Telugu B. Harinarayana Harikrishna Films
1972 Rani Yaar Kuzhanthai Tamil D. Yoganand Jupiter Art Pictures
1972 Sri Krishnanjaneya Yuddham Telugu C. S. Rao Poornima Pictures
1973 Bullebbayi Pelli Telugu K. Krishna Murthy D.V.S. Productions
1973 Dhanama? Daivama? Telugu C. S. Rao D.V.S. Productions
1974 Manushullo Devudu Telugu B. V. Prasad Sri Bhaskara Chitra S. Hanumantha Rao

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 Subbarao N (20 February 2022). "యన్టీఆర్ ఆస్థాన సంగీత దర్శకులు టి.వి.రాజు!". NTV (in తెలుగు). Retrieved 28 September 2024.
  2. ↑ "మన సినీ కీర్తిశిఖరాలు టి.వి.రాజు". Gotelugu.com. Retrieved 29 September 2024.
  3. ↑ "సుస్వరాల 'ఠీవి'రాజు". 64kalalu. 21 February 2023. Retrieved 29 September 2024.

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