Simha Baludu (1978)

Set against the backdrop of an Indian kingdom, this dramatic tale sparks off with Raghunath Naik, a veteran commander of the army retiring from his post. The post is handed over to Gajapati Verma.

The King expresses his gratitude to Raghunath Naik for his selfless service and appoints him as the Chief Judge of the kingdom. The only grief for Raghunath Naik and his wife, Bhagyam is that they have no male heir to present in service of the Kingdom and to take over the role of army chief, a role that members of their family had been assuming for many generations.

Gajapati Verma is a violent and dictatorial man, who wishes that the king be worshipped by one and all. He begins an autocratic rule in the name of the king, in which the public are abused and exploited.

Raju is a fearless warrior, who begins leading the tortured masses in a revolt against the tyrannical rule. What is Raju's true identity? Will he be able to spearhead a movement that will bring the kingdom back to peace and prosperity?