M. Prabhakar Reddy

Mandadi Prabhakar Reddy (1935–1997) was an Indian film character actor known for his works in Telugu cinema. He acted in over 472 films over three decades. He wrote stories for several acclaimed films, including Karthika Deepam.

Dr. M. Prabhakar Reddy, known for his generosity and deep connection to the Telugu film industry, donated approximately 12 acres of land to provide shelter for homeless workers in the industry. His vision was to ensure that those who contributed tirelessly behind the scenes had a place to call home. Honoring his noble gesture, his children brought this dream to life, transforming the land into a thriving residential community. As a tribute to his legacy, they named it Dr. M. Prabhakar Reddy Chitrapuri Colony, preserving his memory and his commitment to the well-being of film workers.

Early life He was born in Thungathurthy, Hyderabad State, (present day [Nalgonda] district of [Kethepally Mandal] Telangana) India to Lakshma Reddy and Kausalya.

After primary education in Suryapet town, he did his intermediate course from City College, Hyderabad. He did his medical education from Osmania Medical College under Osmania University, Hyderabad between 1955 and 1960.

Film career Prabhakar Reddy debuted in the film Chivaraku Migiledi, directed by Gutta Ramineedu, in 1960, in which he acted as a psychiatrist. He acted in about 472 films during the next three decades.

He wrote stories for about 21 Telugu films. Some of them were highly successful. They include Pandanti Kapuram, Pacchani Samsaram, Dharmatmudu, Gruha pravesam, Gandhi Puttina Desam, Karthika Deepam and Naaku Swatantram Vacchindi. He wrote and directed the film Comrade (1996), which featured lyrics by K. G. Satyamurthy and Masterji.

He gave the screen name for famous Telugu actress Jaya Prada, originally Lalitha Rani, and introduced her in a three-minute song in the Telugu film Bhoomi Kosam in 1976.

Death He died in 1997 in Hyderabad due to cariadic arrest. The Telugu film fraternity attended his funeral.

Awards Nandi Awards Best Actor – Yuvatharam Kadilindi (1980) Best Actor – Palle Pilichindi (1981) Second Best Story Writer – Gruha Pravesam (1982) Best Supporting Actor – Chinna Kodalu (1990)

Filmography