Hyderabad: Telugu Film Fraternity Mourns the Passing of Media Mogul Ramoji Rao
Prominent members of the Telugu film fraternity, including Chiranjeevi and NTR Jr, expressed their condolences over the demise of media mogul Ramoji Rao.
Upon learning of Ramoji Rao’s passing on Saturday morning, NTR Jr posted a tribute on social media, stating, “Visionaries like Sri Ramoji Rao are one in a million. A media tycoon and a giant of Indian cinema, his absence is irreparable. The news that he is no longer with us is very sad. I will never forget the memories when I was introduced to the Telugu film industry with the film ‘Ninnu Choodalani’. May his soul rest in peace and convey my deepest condolences to his family.”
Chiranjeevi also shared his sentiments, posting, “A great mountain that never bowed to anyone has now descended to the heavens. Om Shanti.”
Actor Manoj Manchu expressed his sorrow, stating, “Deeply saddened by the loss of Ramoji Rao Garu. Since I was a child, I always looked up to him. His remarkable journey and legacy inspire us all. May his soul rest in peace. Sending strength to the family and loved ones. Om Shanti. Will miss you dearly, sir.”
Sudheer Babu’s tribute read, “Deeply saddened by the loss of Cherukuri Ramoji Rao garu, a visionary in the Indian media and film industry, left an indelible mark with his pioneering ventures. My heartfelt condolences to the near and dear ones. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader N. Chandrababu Naidu also expressed their grief over Rao’s passing.
In a social media post, PM Modi described Ramoji Rao’s passing as “extremely saddening,” highlighting his significant contributions to journalism and the film industry. “He was a visionary who revolutionized Indian media. His rich contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism and the world of films. Through his noteworthy efforts, he set new standards for innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world,” Modi stated.
Chandrababu Naidu remarked, “The death of Ramoji Rao, who was born into an ordinary family and achieved extraordinary achievements, caused great grief. As an Akshara Yodha, Ramoji rendered many services to the Telugu states and the country. His death is a great loss not only for the Telugu people but for the country as well. His fame for working tirelessly for the welfare of society is eternal.”
Ramoji Rao passed away while undergoing treatment at Star Hospital in Hyderabad early on Saturday morning. He was 87. Rao’s legacy includes numerous successful business ventures and media productions. Under his leadership, Eenadu became a major force in Telugu media.
His other business ventures included the film production house Usha Kiran Movies, the film distribution company Mayuri Film Distributors, the financial services firm Margadarsi Chit Fund, and the Dolphin Group of Hotels. He also headed the ETV Network of television channels.
In 2016, he received the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, from then-President Pranab Mukherjee.
