Media baron Ramoji Rao passes away at 87; President Murmu, Modi, others offer condolences | Hyderabad News

The Padma Vibhushan awardee is recognised for being the founder of the Ramoji Group which owns the famous integrated production facility Ramoji Film City in Telangana’s capital city. His mortal remains have been shifted to his residence at the Film City.

He was born on November 16, 1936. Rao launched Eenadu, a leading Telugu language daily newspaper in 1974. He is also credited for backing 50 films and telefilms as a producer.

Following the news of his death, President Draupadi Murmu expressed her condolences and called him a “titan of the media and entertainment sector”. In a post on X, she wrote: “An innovative entrepreneur, he pioneered a number of ventures, including the Eenadu newspaper, ETV news network and Ramoji Film City. Honoured with Padma Vibhushan, he succeeded as his vision was essentially rooted in society. His contributions to this industry will be long remembered. My condolences to his family and well-wishers.”

PM-designate Narendra Modi who is set to take oath for the third time on Sunday acknowledged “visionary” Rao’s contributions to the field of media and offered his condolences on his passing away. “The passing away of Shri Ramoji Rao Garu is extremely saddening. He was a visionary who revolutionized Indian media. His rich contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism and the world of films. Through his noteworthy efforts, he set new standards for innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world. Ramoji Rao Garu was extremely passionate about India’s development…”

Calling Rao a “pioneering figure in the Indian media industry”, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said, “My heartfelt condolences on the passing of Padma Vibhushan, Shri Ramoji Rao spirit, a pioneering figure in the Indian media industry. His contributions to journalism, cinema, and entertainment have left a lasting impact and transformed the media landscape.”

Telangana CM Revanth Reddyin his tribute credited him with “adding credibility to Telugu journalism and adding value to the Telugu industrial sector.” Taking to X, he said: “Without Ramoji Rao, the Telugu press and media sector will never be able to fill the gap. Praying to God to rest his soul in peace… My deepest condolences to the family members.”

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief and the Andhra Pradesh CM-designate Chandrababu Naiduin a post on X, spoke about his association with Rao. “His death is a great loss not only for the Telugu people….for the country as well… He was a pinnacle in the field of media. I was associated with Sri Ramoji Rao for four decades. His way of saying good is good and bad is bad… brought me closer to him,” he wrote.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said Rao’s curiosity, foresight, and determination left an indelible mark on every field he ventured into, serving as an example and inspiration to all. In a post on X, the leader also recalled how Rao had stood by Kerala during its crises, notably contributing to the post-flood reconstruction efforts. “His death is a profound loss to the entire country. I join in the grief of his family and friends, paying my heartfelt tributes to his legacy,” Vijayan added.

Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin, on X, said: “Deeply saddened by the passing away of Padma Vibhushan Thiru. Ramoji Rao garu, the visionary founder of the Ramoji Group. His remarkable contributions to media, journalism, and the film industry have left an everlasting legacy. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and admirers during this difficult time.”

Further, senior BJP leader G Kishan Reddy said: “Saddened by the passing of Shri Ramoji Rao garu. His remarkable contributions to Telugu media and journalism is commendable. My deepest condolences to his family members.”