Subhalekha

Subhalekha
Theatrical release poster
Directed by	K. Viswanath
Written by	Gollapudi Maruti Rao (dialogues)
Screenplay by	K. Viswanath
Story by	K. Viswanath
Produced by	Allu Aravind V. V. Sastry
Starring	Chiranjeevi Sumalata
Cinematography	Lok Singh
Edited by	G. G. Krishna Rao
Music by	K. V. Mahadevan
Production company	Prasanthi Creations
Release date	11 June 1982 (1982-06-11)
Running time	139 mins
Country	India
Language	Telugu

Subhalekha (transl. Wedding invitation) is a 1982 Telugu-language comedy-drama film written and directed by K. Viswanath. Produced by Allu Aravind and V. V. Sastry under Prasanthi Creations, the film stars Chiranjeevi and Sumalata, with music composed by K. V. Mahadevan. The film addresses the social issue of dowry and emphasizes the dignity of labour, delivering a strong message against the dowry system.^[1]

The film was both a critical and commercial success, earning multiple accolades. K. Viswanath won the Nandi Award for Best Story Writer, while Chiranjeevi received his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor for his performance. Viswanath also won the Filmfare Award for Best Director. Subhalekha was remade in Hindi as Shubh Kaamna (1983).^[1]

Subhalekha marked the first collaboration between K. Viswanath and Chiranjeevi, a partnership that continued with Swayamkrushi (1987) and Aapadbandhavudu (1992). Released during a period when Chiranjeevi was gaining prominence as a lead actor, following the success of Intlo Ramayya Veedhilo Krishnayya (1982), the film played a key role in further establishing his career. It also introduced actor Sudhakar, whose character became so popular that the title "Subhalekha" was prefixed to his name. Known for its strong social themes, nuanced performances, and memorable music, Subhalekha remains a significant film in Telugu cinema.^[2]