P. Bhanumathi was an Indian actress, singer, film producer, director, music composer, and novelist. She is considered the first female superstar of Telugu cinema. She is also considered the first female director of Telugu cinema with her debut directorial Chandirani (1953). Bhanumathi appeared in over 100 films predominantly in Telugu and Tamil languages. She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2001 for her contribution to the Indian cinema. She was honored among "women in cinema" at the 30th International Film Festival of India.

Bhanumathi was born on 7 September 1925 in Doddavaram, Madras Presidency, British India. She started her acting career at the age of 14 in the film Vara Vikrayam (1939). She went on to star in many successful films, including Laila Majnu (1949), Chandirani (1953), and Mangala (1951). She was known for her versatility and her ability to portray a wide range of characters. She was also a talented singer and sang many hit songs in her films.

In addition to her acting career, Bhanumathi also produced, directed, and composed music for films. She was the first woman in Telugu cinema to do all of these things. She was also a successful novelist and wrote several novels, including the popular novel "Pedda Manchi Manishi".

Bhanumathi was a pioneer in Indian cinema and her contributions helped to pave the way for other women in the industry. She was a talented and versatile actress who left a lasting legacy on Indian cinema.