- Ramoji Rao, the media magnate behind Ramoji Film City, passed away in Hyderabad.
- The realms of Indian media and entertainment are shrouded in mourning as the news of Cherukuri Ramoji Rao’s passing reverberates through the nation.
- Born on November 16, 1936, Rao’s journey epitomizes the quintessential rags-to-riches narrative, where sheer determination and a thirst for innovation propelled him to the pinnacle of success.
- At the heart of Rao’s legacy lies Ramoji Film City, an expansive marvel sprawled across 2,000 acres in Hyderabad.
- Ramoji Film City emerged as a testament to Rao’s grand vision—a sprawling hub of creativity that provided filmmakers with a veritable playground of possibilities.
- Parallel to his cinematic endeavors, Rao’s foray into print media yielded equally transformative results.
- He founded the Eenadu Group, a media conglomerate that heralded a new era in Telugu journalism with its flagship publication, Eenadu.
- He was the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including four Filmfare Awards South, five Nandi Awards, and the National Film Award.
The realms of Indian media and entertainment are shrouded in mourning as the news of Cherukuri Ramoji Rao’s passing reverberates through the nation. A visionary entrepreneur whose name became synonymous with pioneering ventures in journalism and cinema, Rao’s indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the landscape he helped shape.
Born on November 16, 1936, Rao’s journey epitomizes the quintessential rags-to-riches narrative, where sheer determination and a thirst for innovation propelled him to the pinnacle of success. His entrepreneurial odyssey began with humble origins, but his boundless ambition and foresight propelled him to new heights, culminating in the establishment of iconic institutions that would redefine the contours of Indian media and entertainment.
At the heart of Rao’s legacy lies Ramoji Film City, an expansive marvel sprawled across 2,000 acres in Hyderabad. More than just a film studio, Ramoji Film City emerged as a testament to Rao’s grand vision—a sprawling hub of creativity that provided filmmakers with a veritable playground of possibilities. From intricate sets to cutting-edge post-production facilities, Ramoji Film City set new standards of excellence, attracting filmmakers from around the world while also serving as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring talents.
Parallel to his cinematic endeavors, Rao’s foray into print media yielded equally transformative results. He founded the Eenadu Group, a media conglomerate that heralded a new era in Telugu journalism with its flagship publication, Eenadu. Under Rao’s stewardship, Eenadu emerged as a powerful voice, championing journalistic integrity and shaping public discourse on a myriad of issues. Beyond the printed page, Rao’s influence extended to the airwaves, with the establishment of ETV Network, a bouquet of television channels that further cemented his legacy as a trailblazer in Indian media.
Rao’s entrepreneurial exploits were not confined to media alone. His diverse business interests spanned a spectrum of industries, from hospitality to retail, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a business leader. The Margadarsi Chit Fund, Dolphin Group of hotels, Kalanjali shopping mall, Priya pickles, and Mayuri Film Distributors are but a few of the ventures that bear testimony to Rao’s expansive vision and enterprising spirit.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rao garnered widespread recognition and accolades for his contributions to Indian cinema and journalism. He was the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including four Filmfare Awards South, five Nandi Awards, and the National Film Award, underscoring his unparalleled impact on Telugu cinema. In 2016, he was conferred with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, a testament to his enduring legacy as a visionary leader.
As news of Rao’s demise reverberated across the nation, tributes poured in from all quarters, attesting to the profound impact he had on the lives of countless individuals. Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi led the chorus of condolences, acknowledging Rao’s transformative influence on Indian media and entertainment. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will endure as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come, a testament to the transformative power of vision, perseverance, and innovation in shaping the destiny of nations.
(With inputs from agencies)
