27 Dec 2025
A Grand Farewell to the Architects of Imagination
A Grand Farewell to the Architects of Imagination
Telugu Cine Art Directors Association Honors V. Bhaskara Raju and Retiring Legends
HYDERABAD (July 11, 2021): In an emotional and prestigious ceremony held today, the Telugu Cine Art Directors Association bid a formal farewell to the "Vishwakarmas" of the silver screen. Leading the group of retirees is the legendary V. Bhaskara Raju, a man whose vision transformed empty studio floors into majestic kingdoms and intimate homes for over five decades.
The Legacy of V. Bhaskara Raju: A Career in Colors
V. Bhaskara Raju garu stands as a pillar of the Telugu film industry. His journey is a testament to the evolution of cinema—from the era of hand-painted backdrops to the complex architectural sets of the modern age.
Award-Winning Craft: His work on the 1985 classic 'Mayuri' earned him the prestigious Nandi Award for Best Art Direction, cementing his place as a master of the craft.
Diverse Canvas: Whether it was the grandeur of mythological epics like 'Pandurangadu' and 'Ekalavya' or the gritty realism of social dramas, his sets were never just backgrounds; they were characters in themselves.
Working with Legends: He had the rare distinction of working closely with stalwarts like N.T. Rama Rao, Krishna, and Sobhan Babu, earning their respect through his discipline and creative ingenuity.
The Retirement Ceremony: July 11, 2021
The event, held at the Association headquarters, was attended by prominent Art Directors, Production Designers, and industry technicians. Despite the modest scale due to ongoing health protocols, the warmth of the fraternity was palpable.
"The film industry has been my home for fifty years. While I am stepping away from the daily rigors of the set, my heart will always remain with the smell of paint and the sound of hammers. I urge the next generation to embrace technology but never lose the soul of manual craftsmanship." — V. Bhaskara Raju during his farewell speech.
A Tribute to the Retiring Cohort
Along with Bhaskara Raju garu, several other senior technicians and members of the Association were honored for their lifelong contributions. The Association President remarked that these veterans are not just retiring; they are leaving behind a "Blueprinted Legacy" that will serve as a textbook for aspiring art students.
Highlights of the Career Milestones Mentioned:
Transitioning from traditional set design to digital integration.
Mentoring hundreds of assistants who are now leading Art Directors in Tollywood.
Upholding the dignity of the Art Department through decades of industry shifts.
The End of an Era
As these masters of set design hang up their brushes, the Telugu Cine Art Directors Association expressed its deepest gratitude. While the "Retirement" tag becomes official as of today, July 11, 2021, their influence on the visual aesthetics of Telugu Cinema will remain immortalized on celluloid.