Dr. Rajasekhar once enjoyed a strong position in Telugu cinema, earning recognition through his powerful performances and action-oriented roles. Although he initially pursued medical studies and worked as a doctor, his interest in acting eventually brought him into films. However, personal differences, political controversies, legal disputes and reported financial difficulties became topics of discussion during the later stages of his career.
Rajasekhar entered the film industry in 1984 and gained recognition through films such as Pratighatana, Vandemataram and Repati Pourulu. His wife, Jeevitha, whose original name is Padma, also built a career as an actress and later worked as a director and producer. The couple have two daughters, Shivani and Shivathmika.
Director V. Samudra’s comments about his differences with the couple during the making of Evadaithe Nakenti have brought the old controversy back into discussion. These are Samudra’s claims, and they should not be treated as an established account without considering the other side’s response.
The couple’s public differences with actor Chiranjeevi also attracted considerable attention. In 2011, Rajasekhar and Jeevitha made allegations concerning Chiranjeevi Blood Bank. Producer Allu Aravind subsequently filed a defamation case. In July 2023, a Nampally court sentenced the couple to one year in jail and imposed a fine of ₹5 lakh. They were later granted bail.
Financial pressures associated with film production and health-related challenges were also reported during Rajasekhar’s later career. However, it would be inaccurate to attribute the decline in his film opportunities to a single controversy. Changing audience preferences, competition and film choices may also have played a role.
Despite the controversies, Rajasekhar remains remembered for his performances in Telugu cinema, while his daughters continue to pursue careers in films.