Ramoji Rao passes away
Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, head of the Telugu news and entertainment network ETV and founder of Ramoji Film City, passed away at 87 in Hyderabad on Saturday morning.
Rao had been undergoing treatment for several days and passed away at 4:50 am, according to ETV Telangana, a channel of the Ramoji Group.
The Padma Vibhushan awardee was known for founding the Ramoji Group, which includes the renowned Ramoji Film City in Telangana’s capital. His remains have been moved to his residence at the Film City.
Born on November 16, 1936, Rao launched the leading Telugu daily newspaper Eenadu in 1974 and produced 50 films and telefilms.
Following his death, President Droupadi Murmu expressed condolences, calling him a “titan of the media and entertainment sector” on X. She highlighted his innovative ventures, including Eenadu, ETV, and Ramoji Film City, and his societal vision. She added, “His contributions to this industry will be long remembered.”
PM-designate Narendra Modi, soon to take office for a third term, acknowledged Rao’s visionary contributions to media and expressed his condolences. He said, “The passing away of Shri Ramoji Rao Garu is extremely saddening. He revolutionized Indian media and set new standards for innovation and excellence.”
Telangana CM Revanth Reddy praised Rao for bringing credibility to Telugu journalism and industry. He noted, “Without Ramoji Rao, the Telugu press and media sector will never be able to fill the gap.”
Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief and Andhra Pradesh CM-designate Chandrababu Naidu shared his long association with Rao, describing his death as a great loss for both Telugu people and the country. He said, “His way of saying good is good and bad is bad brought me closer to him.”
Senior BJP leader G Kishan Reddy also expressed sorrow over Rao’s passing, commending his remarkable contributions to Telugu media and journalism.
