P. Bhanumathi
P. Bhanumathi Ramakrishna was a multilingual Indian film actress, director, music director, singer, producer, novelist and lyricist. Widely known as the first female super star of Telugu cinema and South Indian film Industry, she is also known for her works in Tamil cinema. She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2003 for her contribution in Indian cinema. She was honored among "women in cinema" at the 30th International Film Festival of India.
Early life
She was the third child to Saraswatamma and Bommaraju Venkata Subbaiah, in Doddavaram village of Prakasam district, near Ongole, Andhra Pradesh. She grew up watching her father perform in various stage shows. Her father, Venkata Subbiah, was a lover of classical music and trained her in music from an early age.Career
Bhanumathi entered the film industry in 1939, and acted in over 200 films in Telugu and Tamil. She was also called as Ashtavadhani by the film industry people as she was a writer, actor, director, producer, singer, music director, editor and studio owner. She also had a good knowledge of astrology and philosophy.Film career
She made her debut in Telugu cinema in 1939 as Kalindi in Vara Vikrayam, directed by C. Pullaiah. She had acted in Malathi Madhavam, Dharma Patni and Bhaktimala. Her first popular film was Krishna Prema.Her next popular film was Swargaseema, a milestone film in her career. In Swargaseema, she played the role of a theater artist with negative shades who is after a married person for her personal benefits. Oho Pavurama song in Swargaseema became a super hit and she was showered with offers.
She later acted in many memorable movies like Chakrapani, Laila Majnu, Vipranarayana, Malliswari, Batasari and Anthastulu. Her first film in Tamil was Ratnakumar in the year 1949 along with the famous hero of those day P. U. Chinnappa. This film was directed by Krishnan-Panju. In 1953, she made her directorial debut with Chandirani.
Her last film was made in 1998, entitled Pelli Kanuka. C. N. Annadurai gave her a title "Nadippukku Ilakkanam" that suits her aptly. She was revered by many actors she had worked with like N.T.Rama Rao, Sivaji Ganesan, M. G. Ramachandran, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Nagarjuna, Balakrishna, ChiranJeevi, Pawan Kalyan, Venkatesh for her bold and prolific versatility. One of her memorable movies in Tamil was Annai, in the year 1962 directed by Krishnan-Panju, where her acting was appreciated by all and also got the National Award for the film and for also performances in movies Anthasthulu and Palnati Yudham she received National Awards. She is the last recipient of Rashtrapati Award.
Due to her rift with Aluri Chakrapani, she left her role in Missamma movie but after the release of the movie she watched and commented that "she lost a wonderful role but industry gained a talented actress like savitri" which showed her sportiveness and encouragement towards new actors.
Due to clash with Aluri Chakrapani, she produced a satirical movie on him titled Chakrapani which was a huge hit and became a classic in Tollywood for this movie she also worked as Music Director.
For the movie Anthasthulu, VB Rajendra Prasad had approached Bhanumathi for the role of Akkineni Nageswara Rao's sister. She liked the subject and agreed to do the film immediately. The crew booked a room in "Ritz-Carlton" in Hyderabad and she did not want to waste money, so she offered to stay at Sarathi Studios, which had an open area and snakes. The next morning she woke up with her nails bitten by rats. The director decided to cancel the shoot, VB Rajendra Prasad rushed to see Bhanumathi applying iodine casually on the nails and asking when she could start work. While continuing with the shooting, she said, "If you cancel shoot for small things how will I be a Bhanumathi."
India's First Vice-President Sarvepalli RadhaKrishnan was a fan of her work. Telugu cinema Veterans like Jamuna, Savitri and so many actresses cited her as an inspiration for entering into movies. she is widely recalled by her close associates as 'Epitome of Self-Respect and Versatility'. She is the only Female Film Studio owner in our country. She is called as Ashtavadhani by Tamil people. After seeing her performance in Ragoon Radha film C.N.Annadurai honoured her with title "Nadippukku llakkanam".
In later years, she continued to act in pivotal roles in many hit movies like Tatamma Kala, Mangammagari Manavadu, Gadasari Atta sogasari Kodallu, Muddula Manavaralu, Bamma Maata bangaru Baata, Peddarikam and Pelli kanuka.
In Malliswari, Chakrapani, Chandirani, Vipranarayana she played romantic, fun loving and playful characters. In movies like Tatamma Kala, Batasari, Chintamani, Annai and Mangammagari Manavadu she played different type of roles and received accolades and movies like Swargaseema, Antastulu, Palnati Yuddham and Peddarikam she played strong minded lady character roles with negative shades and done justice to the role proved that she was an accomplished actress who can easily portray both positive and negative roles with equal magnitude. She is first south Indian actress to receive Padma Awards
Apart from being a fine actress, she was also a talented musician. She was adept in both Carnatic and Hindustani music. She gave voice to her songs despite it being the norm to use playback singers for actors. Some of her songs are still popular like Pilichina biguvatara, Kila Kila Navvulu, Oh Pavurama, Preme Nerama in Telugu and Azhagaana Ponn Naan, Vaarai Inbam Thaaraai, Nilaa Nilaa Odi Vaa, Thalai Vaari Poochoodi Unnai, Kannile Iruppathenna and Annai Enbadhu Neethaanaa in Tamil. She also provided music to a lot of her films.
During her later years, she served on various movie related organizations. She was a Member of State Film Awards Committee for two years. She was also a Visiting Professor at the Film Institute for one year. She was Member of Children Film Society for 5 years, from 1965 to 1970.
In India, she was the first and the only woman to have owned a film studio, first actress to act in a dual role and the first woman to have directed a movie simultaneously in three languages.
On occasion of World Women's day, Sakshi Sunday magazine listed the most successful women from every industry and she was listed in the one for those from the movie industry. It was also added that the present highly successful heroines could not reach the heights Bhanumathi reached and that it is an impossible task for anyone to reach her level of success.
Literary career
Bhanumati was also a talented writer with a number of short stories to her credit. Her autobiography Nalo Nenu was published in Telugu and later, released in English as Musings. Andhra Pradesh Sahitya Academy awarded her as the best short story writer for her popular short stories "Attagari Kathalu". She was a Member of Lalit Kala Academy for 5 years, and Sahitya Academy, Andhra Pradesh for 10 years. She served as Director and Principal of the Tamil Nadu Government Music College,Philanthropy
She was an eminent social worker who was closely associated with a number of Social Service Organizations. She was the founder member and treasurer of Madras branch of Altrusa International Inc., Chicago for lifelong starting from 1963. She was a life member of the 'Red Cross Society'. She established an educational institution named as "Dr. Bhanumathi Ramakrishna Matriculation School" at Saligramam, Chennai providing free education to the poor.Personal life
During the shooting of the film Krishna Prema, she met P. S. Ramakrishna Rao, an assistant director for that film. He was a film producer, director and editor of Telugu and Tamil Films. The couple later married on 8 August 1943 and the couple have one son Bharani. Later they have launched a popular production company, Bharani Pictures on their son's name. She died at the age of 80 years in Chennai.Awards
;Civilian honors- Padma Bhushan in 2001
- Padma Shri in 1966
- Annai in 1962
- Antastulu in 1965
- Palnati Yuddham in 1966
- Government National Award for Best writer for the book "Nalo Nenu" an autobiography in 1994.
- Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award – South
- Raghupathi Venkaiah Award, from the Government of Andhra Pradesh, in 1985
- Nandi Award for Best Director in 1986
- NTR National Award, from the Government of Andhra Pradesh, in 2000
- Tamil Nadu State Film Honorary Award – "Arignar Anna Award" in 1992
- Kalaimamani, Government of Tamil Nadu, in 1983
- Kalaprapoorna, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, in 1975
- Honorary Doctorate, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupathi, in 1984
- Raja-Lakshmi Award for the year 1998 from Sri Raja-Lakshmi Foundation, Chennai
- Annadurai honoured her with a title "Nadippukku Ilakkanam" for her remarkable performance in "Rangoon Radha"
- She was one of the dignitaries been honored by Andhra Pradesh government at the time of state formation in 1956.
Filmography
| Year | Film | Language | Role | Co-Star | Song | Composer | Banner |
| 1939 | Vara Vikrayam | Telugu | Kalindi | Chittor V. Nagaiah | Prabhala Satyanarayana | East India Film Company | |
| 1939 | Santhana Devan | Tamil | G. M. Basheer | * Maarudhale Yaavum * Dayaa Nithiye | G. Rajagopal Naidu | Modern Theatres | |
| 1940 | Malathi Madhavam | Telugu | East India Film Company | ||||
| 1941 | Bhaktimala | Telugu | Radha | Bhaskar Films | |||
| 1941 | Dharmapatni | Tamil | |||||
| 1941 | Dharmapatni | Telugu | * Anuraagam Leka Anandamunda * Nilu Niluma Neelavarnaa | Famous Films | |||
| 1943 | Garuda Garvabhangam | Telugu | Pratiba | ||||
| 1943 | Krishna Prema | Telugu | Chandravali | * Ekkadunnaave Pillaa ekkadunnaave * Oogave Oogave Uyyaalaa | Galipenchala Narasimha Rao | Famous Films & Star Combines | |
| 1944 | Tahsildar | Telugu | Kamala | ||||
| 1945 | Swarga Seema | Telugu | Subbi/Sujatha Devi | Chittor V. Nagaiah | * Oho Ho Pavurama * Oho Tapodhana * Madhura Vennelareyi * Manchidinamu Nede | Chittor V. Nagaiah | Vijaya Studios |
| 1946 | Gruhapravesam | Telugu | Janaki | Sarati Films | |||
| 1947 | Ratnamala | Telugu | Ratnamala | C. S. R. Anjaneyulu | * Anandadayini * Madana | C. R. Subburaman | Bharani Pictures |
| 1948 | Raja Mukthi | Tamil | Kannika | M. K. Thyagaraja Bhagavathar | * Sarasa Sallabam Seiyya Arugil Vaarumaiyya * Swami Arunkanigal Ivaiye Paareer * Sandhoshamaai Anbar Varuvaaradi | C. R. Subburaman | Narendra Pictures |
| 1949 | Laila Majnu | Telugu | Laila | A. Nageswara Rao | * Neevene Naa Chaduvu * Aaha Pahliyanchega * Viri Tavula Lona * Chera Raavo * Raavo Naanu Marachitivo * Ninu Basi Povudana * Preme Neramounaa * Chelunigani Nijamidani Telupuma O Jaabili * Taanedano | C. R. Subburaman | Bharani Pictures |
| 1949 | Laila Majnu | Tamil | Laila | A. Nageswara Rao | * Nee Thaane Ennasai * Aaha Palan Vandhadhe * Iga Vaazhvinil Kaadhal Mahajothiye Maarumaa * Jothi Minnum * Vaaraayo Enai Marandhanaiyo * Unnai Paarkka Pogirenaa Oru Maasilladha Kaif * Premaithaan Polladhaa * Enadhu Uyir Urugum Nilai Solluvaai Nee Vaanmathi | C. R. Subburaman | Bharani Pictures |
| 1949 | Nallathambi | Tamil | Pushpa | N. S. Krishnan | * Enadhu Uyir Egypttu * Malarthanil Oru Azhagu Mayil * Varuvaare Dear Varuvaare * Naan Vanangum Deivam | C. R. Subburaman | NSK Films & Uma Pictures |
| 1949 | Raksha Rekha | Telugu | Princess Kalavathi | A. Nageswara Rao | * Oho Rajasukumara * Abhayammu Neevegaa * Jeevana Doli | Ogirala Ramachandra Rao & H. R. Padmanabha Sastri | R. Padmanabhan Productions |
| 1949 | Devamanohari | Tamil | Devamanohari | C. Honnappa Bhagavathar | G. Ramanathan | Arkays Pictures | |
| 1949 | Apoorva Sagodharargal | Tamil | Kanchana | M. K. Radha | * Aaha Aaduvene Geetham Paaduvene * Laddu Laddu Mittai Venumaa * Maanum Mayilum Aadum Solai * Manamohaname Vana Vaasame | S. Rajeswara Rao | Gemini Studios |
| 1949 | Apoorva Sahodaralu | Telugu | Ranjana | M. K. Radha | * Aaha Sukhadayi | S. Rajeswara Rao | Gemini Studios |
| 1949 | Nishaan | Hindi | Kanchana | M. K. Radha | S. Rajeswara Rao | Gemini Studios | |
| 1949 | Rathnakumar | Tamil | P. U. Chinnappa Bhagavathar | * Ganavaangale Vaango * Andhi Nerame Inbame * Sollarum Anandam Enadhu Vaazhvil Indre Duraiye * Ananda Vellam * Varattum, Vandhaal Vazhi Solven * Nin Paadham Varave Thaaye Nee Dhayai Purivaaiye * Vizhudhu Vittu Thazhaithongi * Muzhuthunnai Nambinen * Aadavar Kaadhal Idhudhaano | G. Ramanathan & C. R. Subburaman | Murugan Talkies | |
| 1950 | Maya Rambha | Telugu | |||||
| 1951 | Malleeswari | Telugu | Malleeswari | N. T. Rama Rao | * Manasuna Mallera Maalaloogene * Parugulu Teeyali O Gittalu Urakalu Veyali * Pilachina Biguvatara Auraura * Eda Thanunnado Baava | Adepalli Rama Rao & S. Rajeswara Rao | Vijaya Studios |
| 1951 | Mangala | Telugu | Mangala | Ranjan | M. D. Parthasarathy | Gemini Studios | |
| 1951 | Mangla | Hindi | Mangala | Ranjan | M. D. Parthasarathy | Gemini Studios | |
| 1952 | Prema | Telugu | Mothi | A. Nageswara Rao | * Divya Premaku Satiaune * Aagavoyi Maraja * Oh Hayiga * Pelliyanta Pelliyanta * Priyuni Baase * Rojuku Roju * Jeevidhamellaam * Aahaa Inbame Aahaa Engume Aahaa Pongudhe * Kanavu Thaano Ninaivu Yaavum Kaanal Neeraamo | C. R. Subburaman | Bharani Pictures |
| 1952 | Rani | Tamil | Rani/Ranjani | S. Balachander | * Naane Gnaaniyar * Madhi Mayangum Malar Vanam * Karugi Pugaiyum Pugaiye * Unmaiyillaadha Ulagile * Samayam Vaachchadhu * Cheeppu Chunukkani Chimini * Samarasam Nilaiperum * Meow Meow | C. R. Subburaman, Assistants: M. S. Viswanathan & T. K. Ramamoorthy | Bharani Pictures |
| 1953 | Chandirani | Telugu | Champa & Chandi | N. T. Rama Rao | * Eeroju Bhale Roju Ide Prema Idena * Enduko Teliyani Ennadu Anukoni Ee Sambaraalemiti * Evaraalakinturu Naamora Enaleni Vedana * Kilaa Kilaa Navvulaa Kurisene Vennelaa * O Taraka * Meow Meow | C. R. Subburaman, Assistants: M. S. Viswanathan & T. K. Ramamoorthy | Bharani Pictures |
| 1953 | Chandirani | Hindi | Champa & Chandi | Dilip Kumar | C. R. Subburaman, Assistants: M. S. Viswanathan & T. K. Ramamoorthy | Bharani Pictures | |
| 1954 | Aggi Ramudu | Telugu | Saradha | N. T. Rama Rao | S. M. Subbaiah Naidu | Pakshiraja Studios | |
| 1954 | Malaikkallan | Tamil | Poonkothai | M. G. Ramachandran | * Unnai Azhaithathu Yaaro * Pengale Ulangalile * Nalla Sagunam Nokki * Naane Inba Roja * Naalai | S. M. Subbaiah Naidu | Pakshiraja Studios |
| 1954 | Chakrapani | Telugu | Malati | A. Nageswara Rao | * Pakkala Nilabadi Kolichemu * Uyyala Jampalaloogaravaya * O Malathi Lata * Mella Mellaga | P. Bhanumathi | Bharani Pictures |
| 1955 | Vipranarayana | Telugu | Devadevi | A. Nageswara Rao | * Anuraagalu Dhooramu * Endhukoyi Thotamali * Evvade Athadevvade * Madhura Madhuramee * Nanu Vidanaadakura * Raa Raa Naa Swamy * Ranga Rangayani * Saavirahe Thava Dheena * Thillana * Yela Naapai Dhaya Choopavu * Slokams | S. Rajeswara Rao | Bharani Pictures |
| 1955 | Vipranarayana | Tamil | Devadevi | A. Nageswara Rao | * Malaril Madhuvellaam * Ini Aagatha Sogam * Naayagane Jaya Geeta Radha | S. Rajeswara Rao | Bharani Pictures |
| 1955 | Kalvanin Kadhali | Tamil | Kalyani | Sivaji Ganesan | * Manadhil Urudhi Vendum * Nallathor Veenai Seidhe * Alli Malar Solai Inba Valli Ival Thaane * Veyilukketha Nizhalundu | G. Govindarajulu Naidu & Ghantasala | Revathi Productions |
| 1956 | Alibabavum Narpadhu Thirudargalum | Tamil | Marziyana | M. G. Ramachandran | * Maasila Unmai Kaadhale * Azhagaana Ponnu Naan * Unnaivida Maatten * Anbinaale Aalavandha * En Aattamellaam | S. Dakshinamurthy | Modern Theatres |
| 1956 | Alibaba 40 Dongalu | Telugu | Marziyana | M. G. Ramachandran | S. Dakshinamurthy | Modern Theatres | |
| 1956 | Chintamani | Telugu | Chintamani | ||||
| 1956 | Madurai Veeran | Tamil | Princess Bommi | M. G. Ramachandran | * Avarkkum Enakkum | G. Ramanathan | Krishna Pictures |
| 1956 | Rangoon Radha | Tamil | Rangam | Sivaji Ganesan | * Thalai Vaari Poochoodi Unnai * Kaatril Aadum Mullaikkodiye * Thamizhe Thene Kanne Thaalelo * Kaiyil Pirambedutthu | T. R. Papa | Mekala Pictures |
| 1956 | Tenali Ramakrishna | Telugu | Rangasaani | N. T. Rama Rao & A. Nageswara Rao | * Kannulu Ninde Kannela Vinna Mannanaleera Raja * Teerani Naa Korikale Teerenu Ee Roju | Viswanathan Ramamoorthy | Vikram Productions |
| 1956 | Tenali Raman | Tamil | Krishnasani | N. T. Rama Rao & Sivaji Ganesan | * Kangalil Adidum Penmaiyin Nadagam * Kannamirandum Minnidum Annam * Pirandha Nal Mannan Pirandha Nal * Vinnulagil Minni Varum Tharagaiye Po Po | Viswanathan Ramamoorthy | Vikram Productions |
| 1956 | Sadhaaram | Tamil | Sadharam | Gemini Ganesan & K. R. Ramaswamy | * Ponggi Varum Pudhu Nilave * Enggum Oli Veesudhe Ennai Thedi * Thaaye Ezhai Mugam | G. Ramanathan | Kasturi Films |
| 1956 | Thaaikkuppin Thaaram | Tamil | Sivakami | M. G. Ramachandran | * Aaha Nam Aaasai Niraiveruma * Asaindhaadum Thendrale * En Kaadhal Inbam | K. V. Mahadevan | Devar Films |
| 1956 | Rambaiyin Kaadhal | Tamil | Ramba | K. A. Thangavelu | * Kannaala Vaazhvile Kaadhal Poithaana * Kannaala Vaazhvile Kaadhal Poithaana * Aadavaareer Indre Aadavaareer | T. R. Papa | Kalpana Pictures |
| 1957 | Makkalai Petra Magarasi | Tamil | Rangamma | Sivaji Ganesan | * Sonna Pechcha Ketkanum * Vandhadhu Yaar Endru Theriyuma * Poravale Poravale | K. V. Mahadevan | Sri Lakshmi Pictures |
| 1957 | Manamagan Thevai | Tamil | Banumathi | Sivaji Ganesan | * Nenjinile Pugundhu * Yengo Kulukku Thalukku Thevalaiya * Velavare Ummai Thedi * Vennila Jothiyai Veesuthe * Naanthaan Un Kaadhalan * Krishna Nee Begane Vaarai | G. Ramanathan | Bharani Pictures |
| 1957 | Varudu Kavali | Telugu | Banumathi | K. Jaggaiah | * Andachandaala O Taarakaa | G. Ramanathan | Bharani Pictures |
| 1957 | Rani Lalithangi | Tamil | Lalithangi | Sivaji Ganesan | * Inbam Perinbam * Madhunilai Maaradha Manadhodu * Ennai Ariyaamal Thulludhu Manam | G. Ramanathan | TNR Productions |
| 1957 | Ambikapathy | Tamil | Princess Amaravati | Sivaji Ganesan | * Kannile Iruppathenna Kanni * Maasila Nilave Nam * Vaadaa Malare | G. Ramanathan | ALS Productions |
| 1957 | Nala Dhamayanthi | Telugu | Dhamayanthi | Kemparaj Urs | * | B. Gopalam | Kemparaj Productions |
| 1957 | Sarangadhara | Telugu | Chitrangi Devi | N. T. Rama Rao | * Adugadugo Alladugo * Manasemo Maatalo Dinusemo * Raja Naaraja * Allana Gaadhiraajasutudarmili | G. Ramanathan | Minerva Pictures |
| 1958 | Sarangadhara | Tamil | Chitrangi Devi | Sivaji Ganesan | * Arpudha Kaatchi Ondru Kanden * Kannaal Nalla Paaru * Vandhiduvaar Avar En Manam Pole | G. Ramanathan | Minerva Pictures |
| 1958 | Nadodi Mannan | Tamil | Madhana | M. G. Ramachandran | * Sammadhamaa Naan Ungal * Summaakkidandha Nilathai Koththi | S. M. Subbaiah Naidu | Emgeeyar Pictures |
| 1959 | Manimekalai | Tamil | Manimekalai | T. R. Mahalingam | * Kangalin Vennilave * Inbam Inbam Inbam Indha Ulaginile * Ulagame Oru Sirachchaalai * Aadhaaram Unnai Allaaal | G. Ramanathan | Shekhar Art Film Enterprise |
| 1959 | Nala Dhamayanthi | Tamil | Dhamayanthi | Kemparaj Urs | * Sarasam Seiyadhe Maname * Jai Bavani Dhayaarpari * Nan kanda Koyil Endha | B. Gopalam | Kemparaj Productions |
| 1960 | Raja Bakthi | Tamil | Madharasai | Sivaji Ganesan, Vyjayanthimala | - | G. Govindarajulu Naidu | Revathi Productions |
| 1960 | Raja Desingu | Tamil | Ranibhai | M. G. Ramachandran | * Sarasaraani Kalyani * Iyalodu Isai Pole | G. Ramanathan | Krishna Pictures |
| 1961 | Batasari | Telugu | Madhavi | A. Nageswara Rao | * Kanulakudoche Chetikandani Endamavulunnai * Lokamerugani Baala Deeni Pokada Chitramu Chaala * O Batasari Nanu Maruvakoyi * Kanera Kamandhulai Manera Unmadulai | Master Venu | Bharani Pictures |
| 1961 | Kaanal Neer | Tamil | Madhavi | A. Nageswara Rao | * Kannil Therindhum Kaikku Varaatha * Ulagam Theriyaa Payire * Anbaana Enname Paavama * Vazhi Thedi Vandhaai | Master Venu | Bharani Pictures |
| 1962 | Annai | Tamil | Savithri | S. V. Ranga Rao | * Annai Embadhu Neethaana * Poovaagi Kaayaagi | R. Sudharsanam | AVM Productions |
| 1963 | Kalai Arasi | Tamil | Vani & Valli | M. G. Ramachandran | * Singara Vaa Vaa * Kalaiye Un Ezhil Meni * Aasai Vaikkiara Idam * Ninaikkum Podhu Nenjum Kannum | K. V. Mahadevan | Sarodi Brothers |
| 1963 | Anuragam | * Sannajaji Teeveloi Sampenga Poovuloi | Pendyala Nageswara Rao | ||||
| 1963 | Arivaali | Tamil | Manorama | Sivaji Ganesan | * Koovatha Inbakkuyil * Venkata Ramana * En Kobam Pollathadhu | S. V. Venkatraman | A. T. K. Productions |
| 1963 | Penchina Prema | Telugu | Savithri | S. V. Ranga Rao | * Annai Embadhu Neethaana * Poovaagi Kaayaagi | R. Sudharsanam | AVM Productions |
| 1963 | Kaanchi Thalaivan | Tamil | Chola Kumari | M. G. Ramachandran | * Mayangatha Manamyaavum Mayangum | K. V. Mahadevan | Mekala Pictures |
| 1964 | Bobbili Yudham | Telugu | Mallamma | N. T. Rama Rao | * Srikara Karunalavala Venugopala * Ooyalalooginadoyi | S. Rajeswara Rao | Republic Productions |
| 1964 | Vivaha Bandham | Telugu | Bharati | N. T. Rama Rao | * Vinnava Vinnava Manasulona Dagivunna Madhurageeti * ""Neetilona Ningilona * Nagumomu Ganaleni * Alumagalu Vidipoyenanthane * ""Neetilona Ningilona | M. B. Sreenivasan & P. Bhanumathi | Navayuga Films |
| 1965 | Antastulu | Telugu | Rani | A. Nageswara Rao | * Dulapara Bulloda Dummu Dulapara Bulloda * Vinara Vissanna Ne Vedam Cheputa Vinaranna | K. V. Mahadevan | Jagapathi Art Productions |
| 1965 | Thodu Needa | Telugu | Lakshmi | N. T. Rama Rao | * Enno Ratrulu Vastayi Kaani Idiye Toli Reyi * When I was just a little girl — I asked my mother what will I be | K. V. Mahadevan | Vijayabhatt Movies |
| 1966 | Palnati Yuddham | Telugu | Nagamma | N. T. Rama Rao | * Jaya Sambho | S. Rajeswara Rao | Sri Anuroopa Films |
| 1967 | Grihalakshmi | Telugu | Laxmi | * Laali Laali Gopala Bala Laali Laali * Melukovayya Kaveti Ranga Sriranga | |||
| 1967 | Pattathu Rani | Tamil | Gemini Ganesan | * Munnale Oru Ponnu * Sitthan Pokku Sivan Pooku | T. K. Ramamoorthy | ||
| 1967 | Nai Roshni | Hindi | Padma Kumar | Ashok Kumar | - | Ravi | Vasu Films |
| 1967 | Punyavathi | Telugu | Padmavathi | S. V. Ranga Rao | - | Ghantasala | Vasu Films |
| 1968 | Poovum Pottum | Tamil | Padmavathi | S. V. Ranga Rao | - | R. Govardhanam | Vasu Films |
| 1971 | Mattilo Manikyam | Telugu | Lalitha | Chalam | * Saranam Nee Divya Charanam | Satyam | |
| 1972 | Anta Mana Manchike | Telugu | Savitri | ||||
| 1973 | Kattila Thottila | Tamil | Dr. Meenakshi | Gemini Ganesan | V. Kumar | Arul Films | |
| 1973 | Vichitra Vivaham | Telugu | * Ammayilu Abbayilu Naa Matalo Nijam Vintara Meeru | ||||
| 1974 | Ammayi Pelli | Telugu | Dr. Meenakshi | N. T. Rama Rao | * Vandanamu Raghunandana * Naa Kanula Mundara Nuvvunte * Ee Jeevitam Intenaa * Radhika Krishna | P. Bhanumathi & Satyam | Bharani Pictures |
| 1974 | Tatamma Kala | Telugu | Ravamma | N. T. Rama Rao | * Evaranukunnaru * Ayyalali Muddulayyalali * Korameesam Kurroda | S. Rajeswara Rao | Ramakrishna Cine Studios |
| 1974 | Pathu Madha Bandham | Tamil | S. A. Asokan,B. Sarojadevi, Nirmala, A.V.M Rajan, Muthuraman,R avichandran | Shankar-Ganesh | Sri Navaneetha Films | ||
| 1975 | Ippadiyum Oru Penn | Tamil | Sivakumar, Devika | * Sarigamapa Paattu Paadunga * Agapatta Varayil | P. Bhanumathi | Bharani Pictures | |
| 1977 | Manavadi Kosam | Telugu | |||||
| 1984 | Bhakta Dhruva Markandeya | Tamil | |||||
| 1984 | Mangamma Gari Manavadu | Telugu | Mangamma | Nandamuri Balakrishna, Suhasini | * Sree Suryanarayana Meluko | K. V. Mahadevan | Bhargav Art Productions |
| 1986 | Muddula Manavaraalu | Telugu | |||||
| 1986 | Kannukku Mai Ezhuthu | Tamil | Sujatha, Sarath Babu | * Vaadaa Malliye Naan Sooda Mullaiye | Ilaiyaraaja | Blue Moon Movies | |
| 1987 | Attagaru Zindabad | Telugu | Rajeshwari | Kalyan Chakravarthy Nandamuri | Bharani Pictures | ||
| 1988 | Attagaru Swagatham | Telugu | |||||
| 1990 | Bamma Maata Bangaru Baata | Telugu | Rajyalakshmamma | Rajendra Prasad, Gautami | * Dilli Ki Raja Aina Bamma Maata Bangaru Baata * Maa Palle Gopaluda | Ilaiyaraaja | Motherland Movies |
| 1992 | Chamanthi | Telugu | Bhuvaneswari | Prashanth, Roja | Ilaiyaraaja | Motherland Movies | |
| 1998 | Pelli Kanuka | Telugu | Savithramma | Jagapati Babu | * Bangaru Bommaki | M. M. Keeravani | N. V. S. Creations |
Playback singer
Bhanumati gave her voice for herself and many actors to sing many songs.| Year | Film | Songs | - | - | - |
| 1939 | Vara Vikrayam | - | - | - | |
| 1941 | Dharma Patni | Anuraagam Leka Anandamunda Nilu Niluma Neelavarnaa | - | - | - |
| 1943 | Krishna Prema | - | - | - | |
| 1945 | Swarga Seema | Oho Ho Pavurama, Oho Tapodhana | - | - | - |
| 1949 | Laila Majnu | Preme Neramouna Maapai Ee Pagela | - | - | - |
| 1951 | Malliswari | Manasuna Mallera Maalaloogene Parugulu Teeyali O Gittalu Urakalu Veyali Pilachina Biguvatara Auraura Eda Thanunnado Baava | - | - | - |
| 1952 | Prema | Divya Premaku Satiaune | - | - | - |
| 1953 | Chandirani | Eeroju Bhale Roju Ide Prema Idena Enduko Teliyani Ennadu Anukoni Ee Sambaraalemiti Evaraalakinturu Naamora Enaleni Vedana Kilaa Kilaa Navvulaa Kurisene Vennelaa O Taraka | - | - | - |
| 1954 | Chakrapani | Pakkala Nilabadi Kolichemu Uyyala Jampalaloogaravaya O Malathi Lata Mella Mellaga | - | - | - |
| 1954 | Vipra Narayana | Raa Raa Naa Swamy | - | - | - |
| 1956 | Chintamani | - | - | - | |
| 1956 | Tenali Ramakrishna | Kannulu Ninde Kannela Vinna Mannanaleera Raja Teerani Naa Korikale Teerenu Ee Roju | 1956 | Tenali Raman | Kangalil Adidum Penmaiyin Naadagam Kannamirandum Minnidum Annam Pirandha Naal Mannan Pirandha Naal Vinnulagil Minni Varum Thaaragaiye Po Po |
| 1961 | Batasari | Oh Baatasaari Nanu Maruvakoyi | - | - | - |
| 1963 | Anuragam | Sannajaji Teeveloi Sampenga Poovuloi | - | - | - |
| 1964 | Bobbili Yuddham | Srikara Karunalavala Venugopala | - | - | - |
| 1964 | Vivaha Bandham | Vinnava Vinnava Manasulona Dagivunna Madhurageeti | - | - | - |
| 1965 | Antastulu | Dulapara Bulloda Dummu Dulapara Bulloda Vinara Vissanna Ne Vedam Cheputa Vinaranna | - | - | - |
| 1965 | Todu Needa | Enno Ratrulu Vastayi Kaani Idiye Toli Reyi When I was just a little girl — I asked my mother what will I be | - | - | - |
| 1967 | Grihalakshmi | Laali Laali Gopala Bala Laali Laali Melukovayya Kaveti Ranga Sriranga | - | - | - |
| 1971 | Mattilo Manikyam | Saranam Nee Divya Charanam | - | - | - |
| 1973 | Vichitra Vivaham | Ammayilu Abbayilu Naa Matalo Nijam Vintara Meeru | - | - | - |
| 1974 | Ammayi Pelli | Vandanamu Raghunandana Sethu Bandhana Bhakta Chandana | - | - | - |
| 1984 | Mangamma Gari Manavadu | Sree Suryanarayana Meluko | - | - | - |
| 1986 | Muddula Manavaralu | - | - | - | |
| 1986 | Kannukku Mai Ezhuthu | Vaadaa Malliye Naan Sooda Mullaiye | - | - | - |
| 1990 | Bamma Maata Bangaru Baata | Dilli Ki Raja Aina Bamma Maata Bangaru Baata | - | - | - |
| 1998 | Pelli Kanuka | - | - | - |
Producer
- Ratnamala
- Prema
- Chakrapani
- Laila Majnu
- Batasari
- Vipra Narayana
Music director
- Chakrapani
- Ippadiyum Oru Penn
Supervisor of music direction
- Vichitra Vivaham