Ramoji Rao, a distinguished film producer, media mogul, and businessman, passed away on June 8 at the age of 87. His death has left a significant void in the Indian media and film industries. On Saturday, June 9, people from various walks of life, including celebrities and politicians, mourned his demise. In his honor, the Telugu Film Producers Council (TFPC) and the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce (TFCC) announced the suspension of all film shoots on Sunday, June 10.
The official note from the TFPC read, “Telugu Film Producers Council hereby inform that as a mark of respect to Sri Ramoji Rao garu who passed away today morning (08.06.24) that Telugu Film Industry will remain closed tomorrow in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Therefore, there will be no shootings or any film related works tomorrow.” The TFCC also issued a similar statement, reflecting the widespread respect for Ramoji Rao within the industry.
Ramoji Rao’s body was brought to his residence in Ramoji Film City following his death at Star Hospital, Hyderabad, where he had been battling an illness for several years. Prominent film personalities temporarily halted their work on Saturday to pay their respects. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy praised Ramoji for his dedication to journalism and announced that the Telangana government would conduct his last rites with state honors on Sunday morning. The Collector and Cyberabad Commissioner have been tasked with overseeing the arrangements.
Celebrities from the film industry expressed their sorrow and admiration for Ramoji Rao. Superstar Rajinikanth referred to Ramoji as his “guide and inspiration,” acknowledging his monumental impact on journalism, cinema, and politics. Mahesh Babu called Ramoji a visionary whose contributions to cinema are immortalized through the Ramoji Film City. Other prominent figures like Kangana Ranaut, Riteish Deshmukh, Venkatesh Daggubati, Chiranjeevi, and Pawan Kalyan also paid their tributes. Director SS Rajamouli suggested that honoring Ramoji Rao with the Bharat Ratna would be a fitting tribute, a sentiment echoed by actor Allu Arjun.
Ramoji Rao’s legacy is marked by his pioneering efforts in media and cinema. He founded the Eenadu newspaper, which revolutionized regional journalism, and established the ETV Network, one of India’s largest television networks. His crowning achievement, the Ramoji Film City, stands as the world’s largest film studio complex, a testament to his visionary approach and passion for the entertainment industry. His death is a significant loss, but his contributions will continue to inspire future generations.
