New Delhi: Veteran lyricist and writer Shiv Shakti Dutt died at his residence in Manikonda in Hyderabad on Monday night at the age of 92. A versatile personality in Telugu cinema, he was a famous screenwriter, painter, director and producer.
Dutta was known for writing Sanskrit-based songs for Telugu films. He was the father of Oscar -winning music composer MM Kerwani and uncle of famous filmmaker SS Rajamouli.
MM Kirwani, who has composed music for all films of SS Rajamouli, consists of internationally acclaimed Bahubali series and RRR, their sons.
Telugu industry mourns loss
Dutta was allegedly unwell due to age -related health issues. He died at his house on Monday, and the news came to light on Tuesday morning.
He was the father of SS Rajamouli, noted writer V. Vijayendra Prasad’s elder brother was also.
Megastar Chiranjeevi confirmed the news of Dutta’s passing on X (East) and shared her heartfelt tribute in Telugu:
“Sanskrit language, writer, storyteller, and versatility scholar, a painter, Sri Shiva Shakti Dutt, has attained the divine association, gave me deep shock. Praying to the Almighty that his soul finds peace … I express my deep condensation for my friend Krevani Garui and his family.”
Actor Mahesh Babu allegedly paid his honor.
The team of Chiranjeevi’s upcoming film Vishwabhambha also expressed condolences on X:
“Sadly saddened by the death of Shiva Shakti Dutta Garu. His immense knowledge about literature and his contribution in cinema is unmatched. Kerwani Garu and our heartfelt condolences to the family. Almighty gives you strength.”
Who was Shiv Shakti Dutt?
Born in 1932 as Koduri Subbarao at Kovavur near Rajmundry, Kovavur near Andhra Pradesh, Dutt contributed significantly to Telugu cinema through his songs, stories and arts.
Some of his most famous lyrical works include: Anjandri Theme songs, Amma Avni, Ramam Raghavam (from RRR), Nalala Nallal Kalla, Agni Skanana, Mainil Thinkra
He wrote for prestigious films like Bahubali, RRR, Maghera, Hanuman, Sai, Rajanna and Sri Ramju.
A person of many talents, Dutt had a deep passion for music, painting and storytelling.
In the early stages of his career, he moved to Madras (now Chennai), where he worked as an assistant director. It was there that he was the legendary director. Meet Raghavendra Rao. His cooperation began with the 1988 superhit film Janaki Ramudu.
In 2007, he directed the film Chandrahas.
Fans and celebrities across the country took to mourn their death on social media. His last rites are scheduled to be held in Hyderabad on Tuesday.
