The 'Baahubali' director remarked that Ramoji Rao single-handedly introduced many innovations to the industry.
Rajamouli deeply admired Rao's five decades of perseverance, dedication, and creativity, highlighting how he offered employment and inspiration to millions. (Supplied)
The entire Telugu film fraternity came together to pay their final respects to Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, who had passed away on Saturday morning, 8 June, in Hyderabad.
SS Rajamouli, among the many film personalities paying tribute to Ramoji Rao’s mortal remains, suggested that the most fitting way to honour the late media baron would be by awarding him the Bharat Ratna.
Padma Vibhushan awardee Ramoji Rao, 88, passed away at a private hospital in Hyderabad.
He had been receiving treatment for age-related ailments, including high blood pressure and respiratory issues, and was admitted to the hospital on 5 June.
The passing away of Shri Ramoji Rao Garu is extremely saddening. 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… pic.twitter.com/siC7aSHUxK
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 8, 2024
President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister designate N Chandrababu Naidu, Telangana Governor CP Radhakrishnan, Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, along with MK Stalin and Nitish Kumar, were among the prominent leaders who expressed their condolences over the passing of Ramoji Rao.
A visionary legacy: How Ramoji Rao shaped the Telugu media landscape
Speaking to the media at Ramoji Film City, SS Rajamouli remarked that Ramoji Rao single-handedly established numerous institutions and introduced many innovations to the industry.
“He reached the pinnacle in every field he entered and served as a guiding light for countless artists. The most fitting tribute would be to confer the Bharat Ratna upon him. I urge both the central and state governments to consider this request,” the filmmaker stated.
In addition to Rajamouli, Chiranjeevi, Pawan Kalyan, MM Keeravani, Nagarjuna, K Raghavendra Rao, and Rajendra Prasad also offered their condolences at Ramoji Film City.
I am deeply saddened on hearing the demise of my mentor and well wisher Shri Ramoji Rao Garu. The man who created history in Journalism, Cinema and a great kingmaker in Politics. He was my guide and inspiration in my life. May his soul rest in peace. @Ramoji_FilmCity
— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) June 8, 2024
Ramoji Rao is survived by his wife, Rama Devi, and his son, Kiran. Born on 16 November 1936, in Pedaparupudi village of Krishna district, then part of Madras Presidency and now in Andhra Pradesh, Ramoji Rao faced a personal tragedy when his younger son, Cherukuri Suman, passed away on 7 November 2012, owing to leukemia.
He led the Ramoji Group, which includes the world’s largest film production facility, Ramoji Film City.
Additionally, Ramoji Rao oversaw Eenadu Telugu daily, one of the largest circulated newspapers, the ETV network of television channels, the film production company Usha Kiran Movies, the chit fund company Margadarsi, and several other business ventures.
(Edited by S Subhakeerthana)
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