Summary:”Media mogul Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, founder of Ramoji Film City and the ETV Network, passed away at 87 after battling health issues. His demise sparked an outpouring of tributes from political leaders and industry peers, recognizing his pioneering contributions to Telugu journalism and entertainment. The Telangana government announced an official state funeral, honoring Rao’s legacy. Born in 1936, Rao’s entrepreneurial vision extended beyond media, earning him the prestigious Padma Vibhushan in 2016. His legacy as a trailblazer in Indian media and entertainment continues to inspire.”
Ramoji Rao Passes Away at 87
Hyderabad, Telangana – The media and entertainment industry mourned the loss of a stalwart as Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, the visionary behind Ramoji Film City and the ETV Network, breathed his last on Saturday morning(08-06-2024). Rao, also the chairman of the Eenadu Group, succumbed to health complications at the age of 87 at Star Hospital in Hyderabad, where he was undergoing treatment. His demise marks the end of an era in Telugu journalism and the entertainment world.
Rao had been admitted to the hospital on June 5 due to health concerns, including high blood pressure and breathlessness. Despite the medical intervention and ventilator support, his condition worsened, leading to his passing.
The news of Rao’s demise has prompted an outpouring of condolences from political leaders, film personalities, and admirers alike. His mortal remains were transported to his residence at Ramoji Film City, where a stream of visitors, including prominent figures from politics and the film industry, are expected to pay their respects to the Padma Vibhushan awardee.
Recognizing Rao’s immense contribution to Telugu journalism and the media landscape, the Telangana government has announced an official state funeral for the late media baron. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has entrusted the responsibility of overseeing the arrangements to the Rangareddy Collector and Cyberabad Commissioner.
Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi, in a heartfelt tribute, acknowledged Rao’s pioneering role in revolutionizing Indian media. He praised Rao’s relentless pursuit of excellence, which set new standards in journalism and the entertainment sector. Modi expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had to interact with Rao, underscoring the latter’s passion for India’s development.
Senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh echoed similar sentiments, hailing Rao as the doyen of Telugu media whose legacy will endure in the annals of journalism and entertainment. Telangana BJP chief G Kishan Reddy also paid homage to Rao’s remarkable contributions, emphasizing his indelible impact on Telugu media and journalism.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee fondly recalled her interactions with Rao, highlighting his role as a torchbearer of regional cultural communication. She extended her heartfelt condolences to Rao’s family, friends, and followers, acknowledging his significant influence on the media landscape.
Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, born on November 16, 1936, was more than just a media mogul. His entrepreneurial acumen extended across diverse sectors, from journalism to hospitality and retail. The Ramoji Group, under his leadership, flourished with ventures like Ramoji Film City, Eenadu, and the ETV network. Additionally, his contributions to literature, journalism, and media were recognized with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award in 2016, affirming his enduring legacy in the realms of creativity and enterprise.
The passing of Ramoji Rao leaves an irreplaceable void in the media and entertainment industry, but his visionary spirit and pioneering work will continue to inspire generations to come. As the nation bids farewell to an icon, his legacy will live on through the institutions he built and the values he cherished.
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