The Enigma of Sobhan Babu: Romance King, Strict Patriarch

March 20 marks the punya tithi of Sobhan Babu, the Telugu heartthrob who breathed life into romance for decades. Originating from Krishna district’s Chinnagandigama, he began in 1959 with ‘Deva Balam’ and never looked back, amassing 200 films and five top acting accolades as Natabhushan.

Breakout came via devotional ‘Bhakta Sabari’ (1960), followed by timeless romances: ‘Soggadu,’ ‘Gorintaku,’ ‘Jeevana Tarangalu,’ ‘Manchi Manushulu’—the 1973 remake of ‘Aa Gale Lag Jaa’ that crushed competition. Other gems like ‘Devatha,’ ‘Kartik Deepam,’ and ‘Jeevana Poratam’ solidified his reign.

Paradoxically, this kiss-less romantic idolized family above all, enforcing a no-kissing stance in every role. Off-camera, his reclusive nature kept family far from showbiz shadows.

Career highlight? After flirting with quitting post-initial struggles, ‘Veerabhimanyu’ (1965)—a gripping tale of Abhimanyu’s devotion and daring—proved a game-changer, crowning him among Telugu’s top stars with blockbuster glory.

Sobhan Babu’s duality—fiery on screen, fortress-like in life—defines his allure. His passing in 2008 left a void, but his films’ enduring appeal testifies to a craftsman par excellence. On this day, we salute a legend whose principles outshone his stardom.