Iconic media baron and movie mogul Cherukuri Ramoji Rao passed away early Saturday morning at the age of 87. He was admitted to Star Hospitals in Nanakramguda, Hyderabad, on June 5, suffering from high blood pressure and breathlessness. Doctors installed a stent in his heart and placed him on a ventilator in the ICU. Despite their efforts, he breathed his last at 4:50 am on Saturday after his condition deteriorated. Ramoji Rao had previously successfully recovered from colon cancer.
Ramoji Rao’s rise from humble beginnings is an inspiring story. Born into an agricultural family on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi village of Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, he went on to establish Ramoji Film City, the world’s largest theme park and film studio. He owned several companies, including Margadarsi Chit Fund, Eenadu Newspaper, ETV Network, Ramadevi Public School, Priya Foods, Kalanjali, Ushakiran Movies, Mayuri Film Distributors, and Dolphin Group of Hotels.
As a media baron, Ramoji Rao wielded significant influence over Telugu politics. He maintained close relationships with numerous state and national leaders who often sought his counsel on critical issues. In 2016, the government of India honored him with the Padma Vibhushan, the country’s second-highest civilian award, for his immense contributions to journalism, literature, cinema, and education.
Ramoji Rao began his filmmaking career with the 1984 romantic drama Srivariki Premalekha. He produced several classics, including Mayuri, Pratighatana, Mouna Poratam, Manasu Mamata, Chitram, and Nuvve Kavali. His last film as a producer was Dagudumootha Dandakor (2015). His movies won numerous prestigious awards, including the Nandi, Filmfare, and National Film Awards.
cinema manishi extends its deepest condolences to the legendary Ramoji Rao’s family and friends in this time of grief.