Ramoji Film City and ETV Network chief Ramoji Rao, also known as Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, passed away during treatment in Hyderabad at the age of 87. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Media magnate and founder Eenadu Senior group leader Ramoji Rao died on the morning of 8 June at a private hospital in Hyderabad.
Sreedharan, 87, was admitted to a private hospital on Friday night due to some age-related health issues. He died at 4.50 am, Eenadu Group reported.
As a first-generation entrepreneur he is credited with transforming the Telugu media landscape Eenadu newspaper with innovative news coverage and page design. Later, he moved into television and he ETV It is also an entertainment channel and the first 24-hour news channel in Telugu.
Later he established one of the biggest film cities – Ramoji Film City – on the outskirts of Hyderabad, which is still a major tourist attraction and destination for film shootings of India’s top producers. Mr Rao ventured into film production and made some path-breaking films like ‘Backlash’ in the mid 80s. He won several Nandi Awards as a filmmaker.
Born on November 16, 1936 in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, Ramoji Rao started his professional career with an advertising agency, after which he started the popular Priya Pickles and later Eenadu Telugu newspaper. The English daily of the group ‘News Time’ It was the launchpad for many journalists in the 90s, after which it was closed down.
Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi condoled the death of the media baron. “The demise of Shri Ramoji Rao garu is extremely saddening. He was a visionary who revolutionised Indian media. His rich contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism and the film world. Through his remarkable efforts, he set new benchmarks of innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world,” Mr Modi said on Twitter.
Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N. Chandrababu Naidu also condoled his death and recalled his services in the media field.
Union Minister and Telangana BJP president G. Kishan Reddy said on ‘X’, “Saddened by the demise of Shri Ramoji Rao garu. His remarkable contribution to Telugu media and journalism is commendable. My heartfelt condolences to his family members. Om Shanti.”
