Simhasanam (1986)
March 4, 1986Release Date
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Release DateMarch 4, 1986
Original Nameసింహాసనం
StatusReleased
Running Time2h 30m
Genres
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Simhasanam (transl. The throne) is a 1986 Indian Telugu-language epic period action film written, directed, edited, and produced by Krishna under the Padmalaya Studios banner. Marking his directorial debut, Krishna also stars in a dual role, alongside Jayaprada, Radha, and Mandakini. The supporting cast includes Waheeda Rehman, Satyanarayana, Kantha Rao, Prabhakar Reddy, Gummadi, Giri Babu, and Amjad Khan. The music for the film was composed by Bappi Lahiri, marking his Telugu debut. The film was simultaneously shot in Hindi as Singhasan, with Jeetendra as the lead.
Blending historical and folk narratives, Simhasanam draws inspiration from figures such as Rudrama Devi and Gona Ganna Reddy. Set in the fictional kingdoms of Dasarna and Avanthi, the film follows Vikrama Simha, the wrongfully exiled army commander of Dasarna, and his look-alike, Prince Aditya Vardhana of Avanthi, as they navigate a power struggle for the thrones of both kingdoms.
The film's production featured a significantly higher budget for its time, ranging from ₹3.2 to ₹4 crore. It was the first Telugu film to be released in 70 mm, 6-track stereophonic sound. Released on 21 March 1986, the film was distributed across 85 prints in 153 theatres throughout South India. Simhasanam was a commercial success, running for 100 days in six centres, and was praised for its grand scale. The film marked a milestone in Krishna's career, showcasing his versatility as both an actor and director.