Singeetam Srinivasa Rao: The 94-Year-Old Director Making Waves in Indian Cinema

Singeetam Srinivasa Rao, at 94, is making a remarkable return to filmmaking with his new project, Sing Geetham. This National Award-winning director has become the oldest active filmmaker, surpassing Clint Eastwood. With a career spanning over six decades, Rao's innovative storytelling has inspired many in the industry. His latest film, described as India's first musical fantasy, features a fresh cast and is set for a worldwide release. This comeback not only highlights his enduring legacy but also showcases the evolution of Indian cinema.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 9, 2026, 13:52 IST

Singeetam Srinivasa Rao's Triumphant Return to Filmmaking

At the impressive age of 94, Singeetam Srinivasa Rao is poised to make a significant comeback in the film industry with his new project, Sing Geetham. This National Award-winning director, renowned for his innovative and genre-blending films, has now become the oldest active director globally, surpassing the legendary Clint Eastwood. After a hiatus of 13 years since his last film, Welcome Obama (2013), Rao is back with what the creators are calling India’s first musical fantasy. This film features a fresh cast and top-notch technicians, with Nag Ashwin as the producer, marking a pivotal moment in Indian cinema.

Meet the Director Who Surpassed Clint Eastwood's Record

Singeetam Srinivasa Rao was born in 1931 in Gudur, Andhra Pradesh, and his return to the spotlight is drawing attention to a remarkable career that has lasted over sixty years. He began his cinematic journey as an assistant to the iconic KV Reddy, contributing to classic films like Mayabazar (1957). Throughout his career, he has established himself as one of the most adaptable directors in Indian cinema, working in various languages including Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Hindi, and English. His filmography encompasses a wide range of genres, from social dramas and comedies to science fiction and folklore.

Among his notable works is Mayuri (1985), which tells the story of classical dancer Sudha Chandran and won an impressive 14 Nandi Awards. In 1987, he directed Pushpaka Vimana, a silent film featuring Kamal Haasan that became a landmark in Indian cinema and was showcased at the Cannes Critics’ Week. He further solidified his legacy with films like Apoorva Sagodharargal (1989) and Aditya 369 (1991), one of the earliest successful science fiction films in India.

The Lasting Impact of Singeetam Srinivasa Rao

Rao’s contributions have inspired a new generation of filmmakers, including Nag Ashwin and Prashanth Varma, who have both credited him with influencing their storytelling techniques, particularly in the realm of fantasy and grand narratives.

Kamal Haasan, who has a long-standing relationship with Rao, remarked, “I believe Mayabazar premiered in Chennai on April 12, 1957. Now, on June 11, just two months later… that’s how it feels for him, I know. Nothing has changed, and cinema remains with him to this day. That’s quite rare.” Following his extended break after Welcome Obama, Rao’s return with Sing Geetham signifies more than just a revival. The film features Ayaan, Ahilya Bamroo, and Shalini Kondepudi in leading roles, with music by Devi Sri Prasad, marking his inaugural collaboration with Rao. The screenplay is co-written by Rao alongside Gautami Challagulla, Shashank, Sreekar, Nanda Kishore Emani, and Rahul V. Rajeshwar. Produced by Nag Ashwin under Vyjayanthi Movies and Swapna Cinema, the film is set for a global release on June 11.