Ramoji Rao's funeral: SS Rajamouli, MM Keeravani pay final respects
What's the story
Ramoji Rao, the renowned media mogul, died at 87 in Hyderabad.
His death was announced early Saturday morning, causing a stir in the industry.
Rao was reportedly admitted to a hospital on June 5 due to breathing problems.
After a subsequent decline in health, he passed away peacefully around 3:45am on Saturday.
Celebrities and politicians paid their final respects to the visionary who revolutionized Indian media and entertainment.
Tributes pour
The film industry mourned the loss of Rao
The Telugu film industry mourned Rao's death.
Filmmaker SS Rajamouli and music director MM Keeravani were among those who paid their last respects at Ramoji Film City.
Visibly distressed by the loss, Rajamouli arrived with his wife to pay tribute. Notably, Rajamouli's greatest hits—both parts of Baahubali and RRR—were brought to life in Ramoji Film City.
Meanwhile, Telugu actor Jr NTR also visited the film city to honor Rao.
Twitter Post
Celebrities paid their last respect to the legendary media mogul
#WATCH | Hyderabad, Telangana: Film director S. S. Rajamouli, Composer MM Keeravani and others pay last respects to Eenadu & Ramoji Film City founder Ramoji Rao at the Film City.
— ANI (@ANI) June 8, 2024
(Video Source: ETV) pic.twitter.com/VHAVmmrPup
Bharat Ratna
Earlier, Rajamouli called for Bharat Ratna in tribute to Rao
Earlier on Saturday, Rajamouli called for a Bharat Ratna to be awarded to the late media baron in his condolence post.
Taking to X/Twitter, he wrote, "ONE man with his 50 years of resilience, hard work and innovation provided employment, livelihood and hope for millions. The only way we can pay tribute to Ramoji Rao is by conferring him with 'BHARAT RATNA.'"
Notably, Rao was honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 2016 for his contributions to journalism, literature, and education.
Public mourning
Prime Minister Modi and Indian celebrities paid their tributes
Meanwhile, PM Narendra Modi extended his condolences to Rao's family, stating in a tweet, "He was a visionary who revolutionized Indian media...Through his noteworthy efforts, he set new standards for innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world."
Expressing grief, actor Rajinikanth in a post said, "He was my guide and inspiration in my life. May his soul rest in peace."
Ram Gopal Verma shared, "Ramoji Rao's death is unbelievable because he from an individual metamorphosed into an institution."
Twitter Post
Take a look at NTR's tribute post
శ్రీ రామోజీ రావు గారు లాంటి దార్శనీకులు నూటికో కోటికో ఒకరు. మీడియా సామ్రాజ్యాధినేత మరియూ భారతీయ సినిమా దిగ్గజం అయినటువంటి ఆయన లేని లోటు ఎప్పటికీ పూడ్చలేనటువంటిది. ఆయన మన మధ్యన ఇక లేరు అనే వార్త చాలా బాధాకరం.
— Jr NTR (@tarak9999) June 8, 2024
‘నిన్ను చూడాలని’ చిత్రంతో నన్ను తెలుగు సినీ పరిశ్రమకి పరిచయం… pic.twitter.com/ly5qy3nVUm
Rao's legacy
A visionary and pioneering entrepreneur: Tracing Rao's legacy
Born on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi of Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, Rao began his career as a journalist before launching his own news company.
As the head of the influential Ramoji Group, he led successful ventures such as Ramoji Film City, Eenadu newspaper, ETV Network, and Usha Kiran Movies.
His diverse entrepreneurship also extended to Margadarsi Chit Fund, Dolphin Hotel chain, Kalanjali shopping center, Priya Pickles venture, and Mayuri Film Distributors.
May he rest in peace.