The Director Who Made Nagarjuna Angry – But Delivered a Blockbuster Hit
Nagarjuna Shiva movie director story: Tollywood’s King Nagarjuna has delivered many hit films in his career, but one film changed everything for him — Shiva. Surprisingly, before the movie became a sensation, the film’s team faced a tense moment that made Nagarjuna extremely angry.
Shiva: The Movie That Turned Nagarjuna Into a Star
After entering the film industry as the Akkineni successor, Nagarjuna gradually gained popularity. But it was director Ram Gopal Varma’s action-drama Shiva that established him as a top star and introduced a completely fresh style to Telugu cinema.
This film didn’t just redefine Nagarjuna’s career — it also set filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma on a path to national recognition.
Teja Designs a Trend-Setting Poster
At the time, director Teja was working as the cameraman for Shiva. Ram Gopal Varma trusted his creative vision and assigned him the job of designing the film’s title logo and posters.
For the first time in Tollywood, the hero’s image and title were designed in black and white. The bold styling was quite different from the colorful posters typically used in the industry.
Nagarjuna Shocked and Furious
When the poster was revealed, those around appreciated the uniqueness — except Nagarjuna. Seeing himself with a dark, black-toned face on the poster, Nagarjuna was upset and reportedly walked away angrily while holding his son Naga Chaitanya.
Even though others feared criticism, Ram Gopal Varma insisted on releasing the posters.
Poster Became a Masterstroke
Once displayed publicly, the Shiva posters created huge curiosity. The fresh design brought unexpected attention to the film and started a new poster trend in Telugu cinema. Today, that bold decision is remembered as a marketing masterstroke.
A Game Changer for Tollywood
Released in 1989, Shiva became a blockbuster industry hit, collecting more than ₹5 crores at that time — a massive number. Nagarjuna became an overnight superstar, and the film is still celebrated as one of Tollywood’s biggest trendsetters.
Even after 36 years, the craze remains the same. The makers recently re-released the film in 4K with modern enhancements on November 14, giving fans a chance to relive the magic.
- The Director Who Made Nagarjuna Angry – But Delivered a Blockbuster Hit - November 30, 2025
- Delhi Police Registers FIR Against Sonia & Rahul Gandhi - November 30, 2025
- Kailasagiri Glass Skywalk Bridge Inauguration – Longest Cantilever Glass Bridge in India - November 30, 2025
