Ramakrishna, also known as Neernalli Ramakrishna, is an Indian actor who works predominantly in Kannada cinema, and known for his portrayal of character roles as a lead actor. He was born into the Havyaka Brahmin community in Neernalli, near Sirsi, in the erstwhile North Canara region of Karnataka State. In his career spanning over 30 years, he has appeared in over 200 films, mostly Kannada and a handful in Tamil and Telugu cinema; he appeared in a lead role in K. Balachander's Poikkal Kudhirai (1983). A protégé of the renowned filmmaker Puttanna Kanagal, he featured in some of the latter's best works such as Ranganayaki (1981), Maanasa Sarovara and Amrutha Ghalige (1984). Since the 1990s, he has appeared mostly in supporting roles.

Poikkal Kudhirai is a 1983 Indian Tamil-language romantic comedy film directed by K. Balachander, starring Ramakrishna and Viji. Lyricist Vaali made his acting debut through this film. Kamal Haasan appeared in a guest role. Poikkal Kudhirai was based on Crazy Mohan's play Marriage Made in Saloon. The film was an average success. It was remade in Kannada as Mavanige Thakka Aliya (1992).