In this Telugu Podcast of Raw Talks, we sit down with one of the most iconic actors of Indian cinema, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. A legend in the Telugu film industry, he has carved a unique niche with his unmatched versatility, comic brilliance, and deeply emotional portrayals. From his early struggles to becoming a household name, this conversation unveils stories, emotions, and lessons that only someone of his stature could share.
~
What We Discussed
00:00 - Introduction
03:03 - 1st Encounter with Dr. Rajendra Prasad
08:50 - Teaching Discipline to Actors
10:52 - Suicide Story
23:09 - About Harikatha
35:23 - Ah Naluguru movie scene
40:23 - Nuthan Prasad Death Story
43:20 - Day Schedule
46:43 - July movie comedy scene
52:10 - Comedians
53:19- Daughter death
55:11 - About NTR elder son
56:36 - Present Comdey Standard
58:48 - Competition phase / Challenges
01:00:16 - Tirupati cottage
01:04:38 - Restart life
01:05:53 - Vk stage shows story
01:07:12 - Acting with animals and children in movies
01:12:05 - About Director Maggie
01:13:31- How did you manage success with your behaviour
01:16:39 - Experiences with senior directors
01:18:33 - Aeroplane incident
01:21:40 - Inspiration
01:22:45 - Advise
01:25:10 - How do you stay healthy
01:26:08 - How money is important to you
01:27:44 - How telugu industry is different from others
01:28:32 - Dreaming big and negativity
~
Dr. Rajendra Prasad begins by sharing his early days and the influence of legendary actor NTR on his career. VK recalls a heartfelt phone call with the actor, leading to a discussion about how Dr. Rajendra Prasad entered the industry and built lifelong relationships with colleagues and mentors. His anecdotes about his mother’s influence and his quirky snacking habits reveal the personal side of a man loved by millions.
One of the most poignant moments in the episode is his recollection of a time when despair almost drove him to end his life. In a dramatic twist of fate, he received an opportunity that changed everything. This emotional story, intertwined with his gratitude toward director Vamsy and the making of Ladies Tailor, captures the unpredictability of life and the power of perseverance.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s passion for storytelling shines through as he talks about his love for Harikatha and puranas. He gives us a glimpse into his upcoming OTT series, Harikatha, and what sets it apart from other projects. Sharing his admiration for NTR and reflecting on classics like Dana Veera Soora Karna, he offers insight into the discipline and dedication that defined their era. His experiences working with legendary filmmakers like L.V. Prasad and B.N. Reddy, coupled with his memories of shooting in harsh -10° weather, highlight his commitment to his craft.
The podcast delves deep into the making of his iconic roles, such as his character in Aa Naluguru. He shares how he found inspiration in Ramoji Rao for the unforgettable “rupaye rupaye” dialogue and the meticulous preparation required for such challenging roles. His gratitude toward his directors and co-creators, like Maggie, shines through, showing how collaboration and trust shaped his career.
The episode also explores the extraordinary work ethic of Dr. Rajendra Prasad. Balancing multiple projects, including films, OTT series, and other commitments, he worked tirelessly, sometimes up to 22 hours a day. His belief that “work is happiness” and the influence of NTR’s discipline are key takeaways for anyone aspiring to succeed in their field.
This podcast is a treasure trove of wisdom, humor, and heartfelt moments. Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s journey is not just about his successes but also about the lessons he learned along the way. Whether you’re a fan of his films, an aspiring artist, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode offers something for everyone.
