Early life
Ramana Reddy or T. V. Ramana Reddy or Thikkavarapu Venkata Ramana Reddy (1 October 1921 – 11 November 1974) was an Indian film, character actor, comedian and producer known for his works predominantly in Telugu cinema. Ramana Reddy is regarded as one of the finest comic actors of India, noted particularly for his comic expressions, and dialogues during the golden age of Telugu cinema. He and Relangi Venkata Ramaiah were a comedy double act during the era of early Tollywood.Some of his memorable roles are David in Missamma, Karanam in Rojulu Marayi, Chinnamaya in Mayabazar, Kanchu Gantayya in Gundamma Katha and many other roles. During his career spanning 24 years he has acted in more than 200 movies. Reddy is the paternal uncle of Indian politician, and filmmaker T. Subbarami Reddy.
Film career
He has debuted in 1951 with the film Manavathi directed by Y.V.Rao (Yaragudipati Varada Rao) and produced by his friend A.Sankara Reddy from his native district, Nellore. However the movie that released first was Deeksha produced and directed by K.S.Prakasa Rao. (He has not acted in Mayapilla as is mentioned as his first movie erroneously by some film historians). He has played many roles opposite N.T. Rama Rao and Akkineni Nageswara Rao. Some of the movies listed below. While acting in the role of a magician in the movie Akka Chellelu(1957) he actually learned the art of magic as a hobby. He gave more than 100 magic performances, mostly in aid of educational institutions and voluntary organizations
Professional career
He worked as a sanitary inspector before becoming an actor. He is good at magic. He used to perform magic shows and helped many voluntary organizations. He breathed his last on 11th November, 1974.