Aditya Devulapally
1. Simhadri (2003) – Defined his mass appeal
Directed by SS Rajamouli, Simhadri marked Jr NTR's first major box office breakthrough. Co-starring Bhumika Chawla and Ankitha, the film blended emotional drama with high-octane action, instantly elevating NTR’s mass image. At 19, his performance as a loyal servant-turned-saviour struck a chord with audiences, and the film became one of the biggest Telugu hits of the year. Simhadri established the actor as a bankable star in the industry and began his successful collaboration with Rajamouli.
2. Yamadonga (2007) – A bold fantasy tribute
Jr NTR reunited with S.S. Rajamouli for Yamadonga, a socio-fantasy film that saw the actor with a mythological twist paying tribute to his grandfather. Co-starring Mohan Babu and Priyamani, the film was praised for its unique premise and entertaining storytelling. NTR’s transformation, both in appearance and performance, earned widespread acclaim. The film was a commercial success and is remembered for reinventing NTR’s image as a versatile performer beyond mass roles.
3. Temper (2015) – The turning point
Directed by Puri Jagannadh and co-starring Kajal Aggarwal, Temper saw Jr NTR portray a corrupt cop who undergoes a moral awakening. The film was a turning point in his career, showcasing a more layered and intense performance. NTR’s portrayal of Daya, a morally grey character, was lauded by critics and audiences alike. Temper was both a critical and commercial success, and its success laid the foundation for more performance-driven roles in his later films.
4. Nannaku Prematho (2016) – Emotion meets style
In Sukumar’s stylish revenge drama Nannaku Prematho, Jr NTR played an intelligent son avenging his father’s past while staying true to his values. Co-starring Rakul Preet Singh and Jagapathi Babu, the film stood out for its emotional depth and stylish presentation. NTR’s matured performance, restrained delivery, and makeover were well-received by audiences. The film was a commercial success and highlighted a new dimension of the actor’s capabilities.
5. Janatha Garage (2016) – Action with a message
Directed by Koratala Siva, Janatha Garage paired Jr NTR with Malayalam superstar Mohanlal for a story rooted in social justice. The film featured NTR as an environmentalist who joins a vigilante group. With a strong social message and powerful dialogues, Janatha Garage resonated with family audiences and was a major box office hit. NTR’s role as an activist became a trendsetter.
6. Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava (2018) – A mature take on violence
Trivikram Srinivas directed this action-drama, which presented Jr NTR in a more restrained and philosophical role. Co-starring Pooja Hegde and Jagapathi Babu, the film explored themes of factionalism and the cost of violence. NTR’s performance as a man torn between revenge and reform was praised for its emotional restraint. The film did well at the box office and was seen as a more grounded and evolved portrayal compared to his earlier action roles.
7. RRR (2022) – Global recognition with Komaram Bheem
S.S. Rajamouli’s RRR brought Jr NTR to global attention. Playing Komaram Bheem, a fictionalised take on the revolutionary, NTR shared screen space with Ram Charan in this massive pan-India project. Co-starring Alia Bhatt and Ajay Devgn, the film became one of the highest-grossing Indian films ever. NTR’s emotional depth, physicality, and standout moments, especially in action sequences and the ‘Komuram Bheemudo’ song, were widely appreciated. RRR won international acclaim and now the world watches out for his next.