Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, a towering figure in the Indian media and film industry and the founder of Ramoji Film City, died at 87 in Hyderabad early on Saturday. He was renowned for his entrepreneurial prowess and contributions to media conglomerates.
Born on November 16, 1936, into an agricultural family in Andhra Pradesh’s Pedaparupudi, Ramoji Rao grew up with a strong connection to farming. He pursued his education in literature and later became a successful businessman and media entrepreneur.
He married Ramadevi with whom had two sons, Suman Prabhakar and Kiran Prabhakar.
He was the head of the Ramoji Group, which included the world’s largest film production facility, Ramoji Film City near Hyderabad, Eenadu, a Telugu newspaper, ETV Network, and film production company Usha Kiran Movies.
His other business ventures included Margadarsi Chit Fund, Dolphin Group of hotels, Kalanjali shopping mall, Priya pickles and Mayuri Film Distributors.
Ramoji Rao was a recipient of several honours and awards for his contribution to Telugu cinema and media, including Padma Vibhushan (2016), National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu for ‘Nuvve Kavali’ (2000), four Filmfare Awards South and five Nandi Awards.
In the past few years, Ramoji Rao battled and recovered from colon cancer.
On June 5, the 87-year-old was admitted to Star Hospitals in Hyderabad’s Nanakramguda after experiencing high blood pressure and breathlessness.
Despite prompt medical intervention, including the installation of a stent and intensive care in the ICU, Ramoji Rao’s condition worsened and he died at 4:50 am on Saturday.
Several political leaders, including Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi, extended their condolences and praised him for his work in the media and film industry.
Source Agencies
