In a somber announcement, the family of esteemed media tycoon Cherukuri Ramoji Rao revealed that he had passed away in the early hours of Saturday after battling a prolonged illness. Rao, 87, leaves behind his wife Rama Devi and son Ch Kiran, who leads the Eenadu group of publications and ETV channels. Tragically, his younger son, Cherukuri Suman, had previously succumbed to leukemia on September 7, 2012.
The revered chairman of Ramoji Group had been grappling with chronic health issues and age-related complications for an extended period. He was admitted to Star Hospitals in Nanakramguda, Hyderabad, on June 5, due to respiratory distress and elevated blood pressure.
“Despite receiving ventilator support and intensive care, his condition remained critical. Cherukuri Ramoji Rao breathed his last at 4:50 am at Star Hospitals in Nanakramguda,” a family member shared.
Born on November 16, 1936, Rao was a visionary entrepreneur who built an expansive business empire. His ventures included Margadarsi Chit Funds, the widely circulated Eenadu Telugu daily, the ETV network of television channels, Usha Kiran Movies film production company, and the renowned Ramoji Film City (RFC), the world’s largest film production facility.
Additionally, Rao’s portfolio extended to the Dolphin group of hotels, Kalanjali Saree Showrooms, Priya Foods, and Mayuri Film Distributors.
Under the Usha Kiran Movies banner, Rao produced films that garnered numerous state and national awards, cementing his legacy in the Indian film industry. In recognition of his contributions to journalism, literature, and education, he was conferred with the Padma Vibhushan in 2016, India’s second-highest civilian honor.
As news of Rao’s passing reverberates throughout the media landscape, tributes pour in from across the nation, honoring his indelible imprint on Indian media and entertainment.
