Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, the esteemed media baron and business tycoon, passed away in Hyderabad on Saturday morning at the age of 87. Rao, known for his versatile genius, made unparalleled contributions across various sectors, including media, films, hospitality, and retail.
Honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2016 for his contributions to journalism, literature, and education, Rao’s impact on Andhra Pradesh’s political and social history over the last five decades is significant. His innovative enterprises have elevated the region, providing employment to thousands and influencing millions in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and beyond.
Rao founded several prominent firms, including Eenadu newspaper, the largest circulated Telugu daily; ETV channels; Ramoji Film City, reputed to be the world’s largest; Dolphin group of hotels; Margadarsi Chit Fund; film production company Ushakiran Movies; and Priya Foods.
Tributes poured in from across the nation. President Droupadi Murmu described Rao as an “innovative entrepreneur.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed him as a “visionary who revolutionised Indian media.” Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called him a “pioneering figure in the Indian media industry.” Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy praised his contributions to Telugu journalism’s credibility. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister-designate N Chandrababu Naidu, closely associated with Rao for decades, fondly remembered his integrity and candidness.
The Telangana government has decided to accord full state honours to Rao. The Editors Guild of India, in a condolence message, referred to him as a “trailblazer in many ways,” best remembered for his fearless stance against the establishment and his commitment to speaking truth to power.
