Ramoji Rao, founder of Ramoji Film City, dies; PM Modi, Jr NTR pay tributes

Indian media boron Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, who founded the Ramoji Film City,is no more. Rao passed away in Hyderabad, Telangana on Saturday (June 8). He was 87.

Rao breathed his last at Star Hospital in Hyderabad, Telangana at 4:50am local time. The media tycoon was reportedlyreceiving treatment for a heart-related ailment.

Rao was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award, for his immense contribution toIndia's media and entertainment industry. Apart from owning the famous Ramoji Film City, he was also the head of Telugu news and entertainment network ETV.

His mortal remains have been moved to his residence in film city.

Born on November 16, 1936, Rao was a businessmen, producer and media tycoon. Heheaded theRamoji Group, under whichhe had different business ventures such as Eenadu, a Telugu-language daily newspaper, ETV TV channels, Ramoji film industry, and the production house Usha Kiran movies.

Apart from his media ventures, he owns Ramadevi public school, Dolphin Group of Hotels, Margadarsi Chit Fund among others.

Tributes For Ramoji Rao

Several A-listers including politicians, south Indiancelebrities such as Jr NTR, Chiranjeevi, and others paid tributes to Rao.

Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi condoled Rao's death.

“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 excellence in the media and entertainment world,” he wrote in a post shared on X.

Paying tribute to Rao, RRR actor Jr NTR wrote in a post on X, "Visionaries like Sri Ramoji Rao are one in a million. A media tycoon and a giant of Indian cinema, his absence is irreparable. The news that he is no longer with us is very sad. I will never forget the memories when I was introduced to the Telugu film industry with the film 'Ninnu Choodalani'. May his soul rest in peace and convey my deepest condolences to his family."

Actor Chiranjeevi shared a picture of Rao and wrote, ''Mount Meru, which does not bow to anyone.. Divi Kegindi.''

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also expressed his condolences.

“The death of eminent industrialist and Padma Vibhushan awardee Cherukuri Ramoji Rao has caused a great shock.

"He is credited with adding credibility to Telugu journalism and adding value to the Telugu industrial sector. Without Ramoji Rao, the Telugu press and media sector will never be able to fill the gap. Praying to God to rest his soul in peace... My deepest condolences to the family members,” he posted on X.

Superstar Rajinikanth paid tribute to the late soul, ''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''

Kamal Haasan wrote, ''Deeply saddened to learn of the demise of a doyen of Indian media and Cinema industry, Chairman of Enadu Group, Ramoji Rao Garu. Ramoji Rao Film City dedicated in honour of his craft is not only a shooting location but also a popular tourist destination. The passing away of this visionary and innovative thinker, is a tremendous loss for Indian cinema. My condolences to his family and loved ones.''