Raghavayya and Ram Mohan Rao are brothers-in-law, but they are at loggerheads due to a long-standing family feud. Raghavayya, nearing his 60s, is preparing for his Shastipoorti ceremony. At his wife's request, he decides to invite his daughter-in-law and grandchildren, who live in Bombay, for the first time. Among them is Raghu, Raghavayya's estranged but handsome grandson.
When Raghu arrives in Ramapuram from Bombay, he faces embarrassment from Raghavayya's family members. During his stay, he meets Manga, a charming and spirited young woman. The two engage in playful pranks, which gradually blossom into a deep but unspoken love. Despite their growing affection, neither confesses their feelings. Through his kindness and unconditional love, Raghu wins the trust and hearts of the family.
Over time, Raghu uncovers the root of the feud between the families of Raghavayya and Ram Mohan Rao. Years ago, Raghu's father, Bhaskar Rao, was expected to marry Ram Mohan Rao's daughter, Rajani. However, Bhaskar was in love with his college classmate, Kousalya, and left for Mumbai to marry her. Heartbroken, Rajani chose to end her life, leading Ram Mohan Rao to blame Raghavayya for the tragedy and treat him coldly. Ram Mohan Rao's fiery son, Erra Babu, also harbors resentment toward Raghavayya and seeks revenge.
Through careful and timely interventions, Raghu manages to reconcile the two families. To strengthen their bond, they arrange Manga's marriage to Ram Mohan Rao's grandson. In a selfless act, Raghu sacrifices his love for Manga to ensure everyone's happiness. However, as preparations for Manga's wedding are underway, she suddenly goes missing.
The family eventually learns of Raghu and Manga's love for each other. Realizing his mistakes, Erra Babu supports their union, and the two lovers are finally brought together.
Idlebrain wrote "This film belongs the genre of 'Ninne Pelladatha'. The impact it gives to the viewer is more than that of 'Ninne Pelladatha', in fact. Raj's characterization in DDLJ suits the 'Raghu' characterization in this film. An optimist and unconditional good-doer he is, 'Raghu' wins the hearts of all family members and the viewers".[3]
Box office
Kalisundham Raa was rated as the biggest hit in Telugu cinema in 70 years until the release of Nuvve Kavali in 2000.[4] It ran for a record 100 days in 76 centres, 175 days in 17 centres and 200 days in 3 centres. It broke the records made by Samarasimha Reddy in 1999.
