Ramoji Rao, the media baron and chairman of the Ramoji Group, passed away in Hyderabad on June 8 after a prolonged illness. He was 88 years old. His last rites were conducted with full state honours on June 9 at Ramoji Film City, where his son Kiron lit the pyre. The event saw the attendance of prominent leaders, including TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu.
Revolutionizing the Media Industry
Ramoji Rao’s death marks the end of an era for the Indian media and entertainment industry. He was a pioneer who transformed the landscape of Telugu media with the establishment of the Eenadu newspaper and the ETV group of channels. His contributions earned him the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award in 2016, presented by then-President Pranab Mukherjee.
State Mourning and Tributes
The Andhra Pradesh government declared state mourning on June 9 and 10 in honor of Ramoji Rao. During this period, the National flag was flown at half-mast throughout the state, and all official entertainment activities were suspended. An official communication confirmed these details, reflecting the profound respect and admiration the state held for Rao.
Ramoji Rao’s influence extended beyond media. He founded Usha Kiran Movies, a prominent film production house, and Mayuri Film Distributors, a major film distribution company. His ventures also included the financial services firm Margadarsi Chit Fund and the Dolphin Group of Hotels. Additionally, he was the head of the ETV Network of television channels, further cementing his status as a media mogul.
Celebrities and Leaders Pay Tribute
Following Ramoji Rao’s passing, numerous celebrities and political leaders paid tribute to his enduring legacy. Rajinikanth, Kangana Ranaut, Chiranjeevi, Pawan Kalyan, Mahesh Babu, Riteish Deshmukh, and others took to social media to honor him, describing him as an ‘inspiration’ to many. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also penned a heartfelt tribute on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting Rao’s visionary contributions to Indian media and cinema.
PM Modi’s Tribute
In his tribute, PM Modi wrote, “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 excellence in the media and entertainment world.”