Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, a stalwart in India’s media and film industry and the visionary behind Ramoji Film City, passed away at the age of 87 in Hyderabad. Renowned for his entrepreneurial genius and significant contributions to media conglomerates, Rao’s life journey is a testament to resilience and innovation.
Born on November 16, 1936, into an agricultural family in Pedaparupudi, Andhra Pradesh, Rao’s early years were rooted in farming. Despite his rural upbringing, he pursued literary education, eventually carving a path as a successful businessman and media entrepreneur.
Married to Ramadevi, Rao was a father to two sons, Suman Prabhakar and Kiran Prabhakar.
As the head of the Ramoji Group, Rao’s legacy includes the establishment of Ramoji Film City, the world’s largest film production facility, alongside ventures like Eenadu, a leading Telugu newspaper, the ETV Network, and Usha Kiran Movies.
His entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond media, with ventures including Margadarsi Chit Fund, Dolphin Group of hotels, Kalanjali shopping mall, Priya pickles, and Mayuri Film Distributors.
Rao’s contributions to Telugu cinema and media earned him prestigious honors, including the Padma Vibhushan in 2016, the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu for ‘Nuvve Kavali’ in 2000, four Filmfare Awards South, and five Nandi Awards.
Despite battling and overcoming colon cancer in recent years, Rao’s health declined. On June 5, he was admitted to Star Hospitals in Hyderabad following complications. Despite medical efforts, Rao passed away on Saturday.
Political leaders, including Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi, extended condolences, acknowledging Rao’s immense impact on the media and film industry.
Rao’s journey is an inspiration to millions. From the inception of Ramoji Film City in 1996, he not only provided employment but also captivated audiences with films that championed social causes and entertained with a unique cinematic vision.
His foray into television with the ETV Network revolutionised the industry, offering diverse programming in multiple languages, including the groundbreaking ‘Annadata’ show, which highlighted agricultural practices.
Additionally, Eenadu, under Rao’s stewardship, reshaped news media in South India, providing comprehensive coverage of national and regional events.
Beyond business, Rao’s philanthropic endeavours, such as founding Rama Devi Public School and initiatives to support agriculture, underscored his commitment to societal welfare.
Though faced with controversies, Rao’s resilience and dedication propelled him forward. His legacy as a visionary leader and compassionate human endures, impacting countless lives and shaping the landscape of Indian media and entertainment.
