• By Ridhi Suri
  • Sat, 08 Jun 2024 10:36 AM (IST)
  • Source:JND
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Ramoji Rao, the chairman of the Eenadu media group and founder of Ramoji Film City, has passed away. He breathed his last early Saturday morning while undergoing treatment at Star Hospital in Hyderabad. Rao, aged 87, leaves behind a legacy of significant contributions to the media and entertainment industry. His mortal remains has been transferred to his home within the Film City premises.

Rao's legacy is extensive, marked by numerous successful business ventures and influential media productions. Under his guidance, Eenadu emerged as a leading force in Telugu media. His diverse business portfolio includes Usha Kiran Movies, a prominent film production house, Mayuri Film Distributors, a significant film distribution company, Margadarsi Chit Fund, a notable financial services firm, and the Dolphin Group of Hotels, a renowned hotel chain.

Additionally, he served as the head of the ETV Network of television channels. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, in 2016 by then-President Pranab Mukherjee. Born on November 16, 1936, Rao initiated Eenadu, a prominent Telugu language daily newspaper, in 1974. Additionally, he is acknowledged for supporting the production of 50 films and telefilms.

Senior BJP leader G Kishan Reddy conveyed his condolences. He wrote, "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."

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief and the Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu said, "The death of the chairman of the group of companies today, Mr. Ramoji Rao, has caused a great shock. The death of Mr. Ramoji Rao, who was born in an ordinary family and achieved extraordinary achievements, caused great grief. As an Akshara Yodha, Shri Ramoji rendered many services to the Telugu states and the country. Sri Ramoji is the property of the Telugu people who left a most influential mark on their lives. His death is a great loss not only for the Telugu people....for the country as well. His fame for working tirelessly for the welfare of society is eternal. Today thousands of people have been given employment with the establishment of group companies. Mr. Ramoji had a unique era in the field of media. Overcoming many challenges and problems...the way Mr. Ramoji Rao ran the organization with values without giving up is ideal for everyone. In his journey of decades, Mr. Ramoji Rao has always worked for the good of the people and for the welfare of the society. He was a pinnacle in the field of media and we are unable to digest the fact that he is no more."

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