Rekandar Nageswara Rao

Rekandar Nageswara Rao, popularly known as Surabhi Babji, is an Indian thespian, and director, known for his works in Telugu theatre. He was honored by the Government of India, in 2013, by bestowing on him the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award, for his contributions to the field of art.

Early life

Rekander Nageswar Rao, born in a theatre owning family, in the remote village of Gimidi Peta in Srikakulam district, in Andhra Pradesh, in India, is a fourth generation theatre owner. His forefathers, viz. Rekander Chiina Venkatrao, who founded the Sri Venkateswara Natya Mandali (Surabhi) in 1937, Rekandar Dasaradhi Rao and Rekandar Bhoja Raju wee ll known theatre personalities. He takk charge of running the theatre group in 1973.

Notable works

Some of his notable plays are Lavakusa, Mayabazar, Anasuya, Sri Veera Brahmam gari Charitra, Harishnandra, Bobbili Yuddham, Balanagamma, Chintamani, and Rangoon rowdy. He has also assisted B. V. Karanth, renowned Kannada director, in a play by name, Chandi Priya.

Awards and recognitions

Rekander Nageshwar Rao is a recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, which he received in 2011. A year later, the Government of India honoured him with the civilian award of Padma Shri, in 2013.