Telugu film industry mourns the passing of Ramoji Rao

Ramoji Rao, the renowned founder of Ramoji Film City, passed away on Saturday at his Hyderabad residence, leaving the Telugu film industry in deep mourning.

He was 87 years old.

Born on November 16, 1936, into an agricultural family, Cherukuri Ramoji Rao rose to become a business tycoon, media entrepreneur, and film producer. He headed the Ramoji Group, which includes the world’s largest film production facility, Ramoji Film City, the Eenadu newspaper, ETV Network, and the film production company Usha Kiran Movies. His contributions have left a lasting legacy in both journalism and the entertainment industry.

Celebrities like Chiranjeevi, Jr NTR, Ram Gopal Varma, Vishnu Manchu, and Manoj Manchu took to social media to express their grief. Notably, filmmaker SS Rajamouli called for the late media baron to be honored with the Bharat Ratna.

In a heartfelt post on his X handle, Rajamouli wrote, “ONE man with his 50 years of resilience, hard work, and innovation provided employment, livelihood, and hope for millions. The only way we can pay tribute to Ramoji Rao garu is by conferring him with ‘BHARAT RATNA’.”

Padma Bhushan awardee Chiranjeevi also shared his sorrow, comparing Ramoji to Mount Meru, stating, “Mount Meru, which does not bow to anyone… Divi Kegindi. Om Shanti.”

Jr NTR expressed his deep sadness in a lengthy note, calling Ramoji Rao a visionary and a giant of Indian cinema. He reminisced about his own debut in the Telugu film industry with “Ninnu Chhadalani,” facilitated by Ramoji’s influence. “His absence is irreparable. May his soul rest in peace and my deepest condolences to his family,” he wrote.

Ram Gopal Varma described Ramoji Rao’s death as unbelievable, emphasizing his transformation from an individual to an institution. “The Telugu states won’t be the same without his towering personality,” he noted.

Actor Manoj Manchu, reflecting on his childhood admiration for Ramoji, wrote, “Deeply saddened by the loss of Ramoji Rao Garu. His remarkable journey and legacy inspire us all. May his soul rest in peace. Sending strength to the family and loved ones. Om Shanti.”

Vishnu Manchu, who is currently filming for “Kanappa,” shared his memories of meeting Ramoji Rao, highlighting the profound life lessons he learned from him. “Every time I had the fortune of meeting him, it was a profound life-learning lesson. His legacy will forever inspire us,” he stated.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to Ramoji Rao on his X handle, sharing a photo from one of their meetings. Modi praised Rao as a visionary who revolutionized Indian media, leaving 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 wrote.