Renowned producer S Gopal Reddy (64), producer of blockbusters such as Mangammagari Manavadu and Muddula Mavayya, has passed away today (September 12, 2008) in Chennai. Under his banner, Bhargav Arts, he produced some resounding hits especially his bonding with Nandamuri Balakrishna and director Kodi Ramakrishna proved highly successful. He was born on July 1, 1944 in Gunipatam Village in Nellore district and began his career as producer with dubbed movies. With his very first straight film, Manishiko Charitra (1982) starring Murali Mohan and Suhasini, he struck gold. Then he teamed up with director Kodi Ramakrishna for Mukku Pudaka starring Suhasini and Bhanuchander and the film’s success made their jodi hot favorite.
Later he joined hands with Nandamuri Balakrishna, their associated continued for two decades. Their first film was Mangamma Gaari Manavadu (remake of Bharati Raja directed Tamil hit, Man Vasanai) that was biggest hit at that time. Then followed blockbusters Muvva Gopaludu, Muddula Maavayya, Muddala Krishnaiah with Balakrishna.
Some of the memorable hits in his career are Maa Pallello Gopaludu and Mannemlo Monagadu with Arjun, Murali Krishnudu with Nagarjuna, Allari Pilla with Meena, Madhura Nagarilo..., etc.
His son started a movie with Balakrishna, a big-budgeted folklore film, but it was called off after a few days of shoot. This incident coupled with the sudden demise of his wife made him go in depression. Since then, he kept away from film field.
Recently, his health has deteriorated and he had been going under treatment at Apollo Hospital, Chennai. He passed away on the hospital b e d.
