Obituary: Taraka Ratna — an ambitious film and political journey cut short by tragedy

The death of the young actor, who was four days shy of his 40th birthday, has cast a pall of gloom in Tollywood.

Deeply saddened to learn of the
tragic premature demise of #NandamuriTarakaRatna
Such bright, talented, affectionate young man .. gone too soon! 💔 💔
Heartfelt condolences to all the family members and fans! May his Soul Rest in Peace! శివైక్యం 🙏🙏 pic.twitter.com/noNbOLKzfX

— Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) February 18, 2023

In with a bang!

While the news of Taraka Ratna’s health condition was trending over the last few days, he first made news in 2001, when he made his debut as an actor in the Telugu film industry.

Hailing from one of the most powerful families in the Telugu cinema industry and Andhra Pradesh politics, it was natural that his entry into movies attracted the media’s and people’s attention.

But what was special about Taraka Ratna’s debut and what made him stand out was that he started off with a bang by launching nine movies on the very first day of his movie career launch.

Shocked and deeply saddened by the untimely demise of #TarakaRatna. Gone way too soon brother… My thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones during this time of grief. 🙏

— Mahesh Babu (@urstrulyMahesh) February 18, 2023

Changing his ‘good guy’ image

While the move to launch nine movies on the day of debut was seen as a “power statement” by some, others felt that it was an immature move. Unfortunately, many of those nine movies did not take off.

Ironically, Taraka Ratna made his debut under legendary director Kodandarami Reddy with Okato Number Kurraadu. Another celebrated director, K Raghavendra Rao, was also a part of it as the screenplay writer.

What’s more? It was produced by star director Ashwini Dutt who is known for making several landmark movies. Golden Globes winning MM Keeravani composed music for this flick too. But it was all in vain.

Realising that his image didn’t suit the quintessential “hero”, he turned into a “villain” in the Ravi Babu directorial Amaravathi.

This 2009 suspense thriller won him a Nandi Award, earning him a place at the Telugu film history table.

Heartbroken to learn of the passing away of #TarakaRatna garu. Gone to soon 💔. My deepest condolences to his family, friends & fans. May he rest in peace.

— Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) February 18, 2023

Post the Nandi Award, Taraka Ratna shifted to character roles and continued to act in several movies like Venkatadri, Eduru Leni Alexander, Kakateeyudu and others.

His last movie as lead actor was Saradhi. This sports-based movie earned a good response. He also starred in crime thriller series 9 Hours that is currently being streamed on Disney+ Hotstar.

From acting to politics

In the recent past, Taraka Ratna had expressed his interest in joining politics.

Throughout his movie career, Taraka Ratna was also politically aware and even made the occasional appearance at political meetings.

Deeply saddened on the passing away of Tarakaratna garu. My sincere condolences to his family and friends in this grief hour .

— chaitanya akkineni (@chay_akkineni) February 18, 2023

In fact, he was by the side of TDP scion and former minister Nara Lokesh during the the launch of his padayatra when he suffered the heart attack.

Though Taraka Ratna was immediately rushed to the hospital, a massive stroke debilitated him beyond hope.

The ambitious film and political journey of Nandamuri Taraka Ratna came to a tragic end before achieving his full potential. He is survived by his wife and daughter.