Kanneganti Brahmanandam (born 1 February 1956), known mononymously as Brahmanandam, is an Indian actor, comedian, impersonator, voice actor and film director known for his works predominantly in Telugu cinema.[1] He holds the Guinness World Record for the most screen credits for a living actor, appearing in over 1000 films to date.[2][3][4] In 2009, he was honoured with the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award in India, for his contribution to Indian cinema.[5] Brahmanandam is known particularly for his comic expressions.[6][7] One of the highest-paid comedy actors in India, Brahmanandam has garnered six state Nandi Awards, one Filmfare Award South, six CineMAA Awards, and three South Indian International Movie Awards.[8][9]
Brahmanandam initially worked as Telugu language lecturer in Attili of West Godavari district. During the same period, he also worked in theatre and as a mimicry artist. Soon after, he made his debut in television in 1985 with the DD Telugu's Pakapakalu.[14][15] His performance in the show received good response from the audience.[16] After watching his performance in the show, director Jandhyala cast him in the film Aha Naa-Pellanta! (1987), which marked his debut in films.[17] His role 'Ara Gundu' in the film, received wide appreciation from both critics and audience.[18] In an article, Jahnavi Reddy of The News Minute wrote that "In Aha Naa-Pellanta!, it is Brahmanandam’s character who does most of the insulting, generously embellished with alliterations and absurd similes".[19] The same year he appeared in the successful films Satygraham and Swayam Krushi.
The following years he appeared in several Telugu films, of which, his performance in the films Vivaha Bhojanambu (1988), Choopulu Kalisina Shubhavela (1988), Bandhuvulostunnaru Jagratha (1989), Muddula Mavayya (1989), Jagadeka Veerudu Atiloka Sundari (1990), Bobbili Raja (1990) and Bamma Maata Bangaru Baata (1990) was well praised.[20]
Beginning from 1991, Brahmanandam has appeared in variety of comedic roles and a few intense roles. In 1991, he starred in major films such as Kshana Kshanam and Rowdy Alludu.[21] The Times of India considered the films Chitram Bhalare Vichitram (1991), Jamba Lakidi Pamba (1992) and Yamaleela (1994) that can never get bored no matter how many times we watch them. Brahmanandam has appeared in each of these, with him being considered as one of the main reasons for these films to be successful.[22] In 1992, he has played the lead role in Babai Hotel for the first time.[23] He won his first major award–Nandi Award for Best Male Comedian for his performance as Khan Dada in the film Money (1993).[24] Following the success of the film, a sequel to it, Money Money (1994) was also produced, in which Brahmanandam reprised his role. Griddaluru Gopalrao of Zamin Ryot in his review of the film Hello Brother (1994) praised Brahmanandam's role and his performance.[25] His further successful films of the following years include Alluda Majaka (1995), Intlo Illalu Vantintlo Priyuralu (1996), Bombay Priyudu (1996), Anaganaga Oka Roju (1997), Muddula Mogudu (1997), Bavagaru Bagunnara? (1998), Aavida Maa Aavide (1998), Thammudu (1999), Kshemamga Velli Labhamga Randi (2000), Jayam Manade Raa (2000), Kalisundam Raa (2000) and Ammo! Okato Tareekhu (2000)
Civilian honors
Guinness Book
South Indian International Movie Awards
Other
Main article: Brahmanandam filmography
Brahmanandam acted in more than 1,000 films.[3]