Ramoji Rao's Death: Chiranjeevi To Pawan Kalyan, Celebrities Pay Last Tributes; Final Rites Commence

Ramoji Rao's Death: The last rites for Ramoji Rao, the media baron and founder of Eenadu and Ramoji Film City, are taking place at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. Ramoji Rao, aged 87, passed away while receiving medical care at a hospital in the city.

According to reliable sources, the Telangana government has diligently organised state honours for the funeral of the late media mogul. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, presently in Delhi for a CWC meeting, instructed the chief secretary to oversee the proceedings adequately. Subsequently, the chief secretary directed the Ranga Reddy District Collector and the Cyberabad Commissioner to handle the arrangements.

Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh government has announced June 9 and 10 as days of mourning to pay homage, with the national flag lowered to half-mast across official buildings and the suspension of all official entertainment activities. Furthermore, three senior officials-RP Sisodia, Saiprasad, and Rajat Bhargava-will attend the last rites on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh government to honour Ramoji Rao.

Celebrities Pay Last Tributes

On June 8, Chiranjeevi, Pawan Kalyan, and Nagarjuna paid their final respects to Ramoji Rao. Besides them, a multitude of actors from the South film industry paid tribute to Ramoji Rao. Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Mohanlal, Jr. NTR, Ram Charan, SS Rajamouli, and various other celebrities were among those who paid homage.

Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, born on November 16, 1936, was a prominent figure in business, media, and film production, renowned for his significant influence on the Indian entertainment industry. He led the Ramoji Group, which owns Ramoji Film City, the largest film production facility globally, along with Eenadu newspaper, ETV Network, Usha Kiran Movies, Margadarsi Chit Fund, Dolphin Group hotels, Kalanjali shopping mall, Priya pickles, and Mayuri Film Distributors.

In 1996, he established Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, spanning over 2,000 acres and recognised as the world's largest film city. This expansive complex offers comprehensive film production resources, including sets, studios, and post-production services, while also serving as a prominent tourist destination, attracting visitors worldwide.

Rao's contributions to Telugu cinema earned him numerous accolades, including four Filmfare Awards South, five Nandi Awards, and the National Film Award. In 2016, he received the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honour, in recognition of his remarkable achievements in journalism, literature, and education.