Gang Leader Director Vijaya Bapineedu Passes Away At 82

Updated: Tuesday, February 12, 2019, 11:25 [IST]

In an unfortunate development, veteran director Vijaya Bapineedu is no more. The legendary filmmaker passed away this morning at his residence. Early reports suggest that his death was caused because of age-related complications. One is likely to get a clearer picture once more details are revealed.

Vijaya Bapineedu was born on September 22, 1936, in Eluru, Andhra Pradesh. After completing his education, he worked as the editor of a popular magazine. He eventually entered the film industry in 1981. In the subsequent years, he directed successful films like Naku Pellam Kavali and Khaidi No 786 and found a foothold in the industry.

He shared a lovely rapport with Chiranjeevi, playing a big role in establishing him as a mass hero. His most notable films with the Megastar include Gang Leader, Khaidi 786 and Big Boss. Gang Leader, in particular, became a huge hit owing to its massy dialogues and action scenes. It was later remade in Hindi as Aaj Ka Goondaraj with Chiranjeevi reprising his role from the Telugu version.

Vijaya Bapineedu's death has left his fans in a state of shock. Many of them took to Twitter to condole his demise.

Here are the Tweets

Chiranjeevi's #Gangleader is my all time favorite movie which never tires me. The director who delivered several blockbusters is no more. #RIPVijayaBapineedu https://t.co/VVBGvprLfi
— Padmaja Konisetti పద్మజ కొనిశెట్టి (@paddukonisetti) February 12, 2019

Chiranjeevi ki annam petti oka star hero ni chesina "Gutta Vijaya Baapinidu" patrika ranga "Baapinidu" ika leru #RIPVijayaBapineedu
— AbhimaniRockz (@AbhimaniRockz) February 12, 2019