Sri Manjunatha (2001)

This historical biography revolves around Manjunatha (Arjun Sarja), a strong man, who is an atheist, but a good person helping others in need and fighting evil. So,, even though Manjunatha hates his namesake Lord Manjunatha (Chiranjeevi), the latter loves his would-be devotee. Manjunatha meets Kathyayini (Soundarya) with whom he is forced to spend a night in the forest, after she is severely injured. When her reputation is attacked as a consequence, he chooses to marry her. Soon they beget a son who like his mother is a staunch devotee of Lord Manjunatha.

After marriage Manjunatha slowly transforms into a great devotee of Lord Manjunatha and with his devotion wins the hearts of everybody including the local King, Ambikeswara Maharaju (Ambareesh) who invites him to his court where he felicitates Manjunatha.

In the meantime Manjunatha starts a koti linga pooja. He is also troubled by his enemies and is aided by Lord Manjunatha who comes in various disguises to save his devotee and help him and his wife attain salvation.