• Source:JND
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Ramoji Rao, the visionary head of the ETV Network and Ramoji Film City, passed away at the age of 87 in Hyderabad. His demise marks the end of an era in the Indian film and media industry.

The recent success of SS Rajamouli’s RRR added another feather to the cap of the legendary composer MM Keeravani, who, along with lyricist Chandrabose, clinched the Oscar for Best Original Song with the track Naatu Naatu. This victory not only made history as the first Indian film song to win an Oscar but also held a special significance for Keeravani.

Keeravani expressed his excitement about winning the prestigious award for Ramoji Rao, stating that the recognition was most valuable because it brought happiness to the late media mogul. He shared an anecdote where Rao encouraged him to aim for the Oscars, which ultimately led Keeravani to view the award in a new light.

"My wife always says that one must live like Ramoji Rao at least for a day. I was initially not excited about being nominated for the Oscar. But, when I met Ramoji Rao, he told me to bring the award home. I thought, if he is giving such importance to the Oscars, I have to win it. I felt like the award had value then and even was nervous the few seconds before they announced the award. Not for me, for him,” Keeravani recalled.

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Rao's impact transcended the film industry, as noted by SS Rajamouli, who called for conferring him with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in recognition of his 50 years of resilience, hard work, and innovation that provided employment, livelihood, and hope for millions.

Jr NTR also paid tribute to Rao, describing him as a visionary and a giant of Indian cinema. "Visionaries like Sri Ramoji Rao are one in a million. A media tycoon and a giant of Indian cinema, his absence is irreparable. The news that he is no longer with us is very sad,” Jr NTR wrote.

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