Media mogul Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, the head of ETV Network and founder of Ramoji Film City, passed away in Hyderabad on June 8 at the age of 87.
Rao’s last rites were conducted at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad on Sunday morning, attended by his family, politicians, and many admirers. The funeral was held with the state honours of the Telangana government.
According to several media reports, he had been unwell for some time. He was admitted to a hospital in Hyderabad a few days ago.
Born on November 16, 1936, Rao established a vast business empire encompassing Eenadu Telugu daily, Margadarsi Chit Funds, ETV network of television channels, film production company Usha Kiran Movies, and the world’s largest film production facility, Ramoji Film City.
The man who significantly influenced the media and film industry in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana for years, and a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, brought global recognition to Hyderabad by establishing Ramoji Film City. Launched in 1996, it became known as a one-stop shop for movie making. Bollywood films were shot here, along with several international movies, on its expansive grounds.
Rao, who hailed from the village of Pedaparupudi in Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, was renowned for his meticulous approach to building his business empire. Always seen dressed in white, he became a distinguished figure in his field.
Under his leadership, Eenadu emerged as a dominant force in Telugu media. His other business ventures include, the film distribution company Mayuri Film Distributors, the Dolphin Group of Hotels, Kalanjali Saree showrooms, and Priya Foods.
Individuals from various political backgrounds and members of the film fraternity expressed their condolences following Rao’s passing.
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
With the demise of Shri Ramoji Rao, India has lost a titan of the media and entertainment sector. An innovative entrepreneur, he pioneered a number of ventures, including the Eenadu newspaper, ETV news network and Ramoji Film City. Honoured with Padma Vibhushan, he succeeded as…
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) June 8, 2024
An illustrious personality, a media stalwart, and an iconic entrepreneur, Ramoji Rao Garu’s passing away is deeply painful news. Blessed with unmatched imagination, Ramoji Rao Garu introduced positive change in a wide range of sectors he worked in, ranging from media to finance… pic.twitter.com/QewhvdK0np
— Amit Shah (Modi Ka Parivar) (@AmitShah) June 8, 2024
Deeply saddened by the passing of Ramoji Rao Garu Ji. A visionary in Indian media, his contributions to journalism and film have set unparalleled standards. His dedication to India’s progress is truly admirable. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and countless…
— Nitin Gadkari (मोदी का परिवार) (@nitin_gadkari) June 8, 2024
My heartfelt condolences on the passing of Padma Vibhushan, Shri Ramoji Rao Garu, a pioneering figure in the Indian media industry.
His contributions to journalism, cinema, and entertainment have left a lasting impact and transformed the media landscape.
My thoughts are with… pic.twitter.com/2HQOP0rx7V
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) June 8, 2024
Deeply saddened by the passing away of Padma Vibhushan Thiru. Ramoji Rao garu, the visionary founder of the Ramoji Group. His remarkable contributions to media, journalism, and the film industry have left an everlasting legacy. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family,… pic.twitter.com/oedBtibWFx
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) June 8, 2024
ONE man with his 50 years of resilience, hardwork and innovation provided employment, livelihood and hope for millions. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
The only way we can pay tribute to Ramoji Rao garu is conferring him with “BHARAT RATNA”
— rajamouli ss (@ssrajamouli) June 8, 2024
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
Deeply saddened by the passing of #RamojiRao Garu, a pioneer and an inspiring visionary whom I deeply respect. I feel his aura every time I shoot at #RFC. His unparalleled contributions to the media, cinema, and many other industries will never be forgotten. Heartfelt condolences…
— Allu Arjun (@alluarjun) June 8, 2024
I am deeply saddened to learn that the Icon, the Legend Shri Ramoji Rao garu is no more. @geneliad and i are actors today thanks to his belief in giving chances to new comers. He dared to do things no one dreamt of. His legacy will live on forever. My deepest condolences to his… pic.twitter.com/x4jkYm9bc6
— Riteish Deshmukh (@Riteishd) June 8, 2024
