Ramoji Rao, Eenadu Group Chairman, Passes Away at 87

Ramoji Rao, Chairman of Eenadu Group, Passes Away

Hyderabad, June 08,2024: Ramoji Rao, the esteemed Chairman of the Eenadu Group of Companies, passed away. He was admitted to a hospital in Hyderabad on the 5th of this month due to breathing difficulties. Ramoji Rao breathed his last on Saturday morning while undergoing treatment.

Biography of Ramoji Rao

Ramoji Rao: A Titan of Indian Media

Ramoji Rao, born Cherukuri Ramoji Rao on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi, Andhra Pradesh, was a visionary entrepreneur and media baron. He founded the Eenadu Group, one of India’s largest media conglomerates, which has had a profound impact on Indian journalism and the media industry.

Early Life and Education

Ramoji Rao hailed from a modest agricultural family. His early education was completed in his hometown, where he developed a keen interest in literature and journalism. He moved to Hyderabad for higher studies and began his career in the business sector.

Establishment of Eenadu

In 1974, Ramoji Rao launched Eenadu, a Telugu-language daily newspaper. Starting in Visakhapatnam, the paper quickly expanded its reach across Andhra Pradesh due to its innovative approach and high editorial standards. Eenadu soon became the leading Telugu newspaper, known for its comprehensive coverage of regional and national news.

Diversification and Expansion

Building on the success of Eenadu, Ramoji Rao diversified into various sectors. He established the Ramoji Group, which ventured into television with ETV, a network of regional language channels, and also into film production, publishing, financial services, and food processing.

One of his most ambitious projects was the creation of Ramoji Film City in 1991. Located near Hyderabad, it is the world’s largest integrated film studio complex, attracting filmmakers from around the globe and serving as a popular tourist destination.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Ramoji Rao received numerous accolades for his contributions to media and business. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in 2016, recognizing his exceptional service to the nation in the field of journalism.

Philanthropy and Legacy

Ramoji Rao was also known for his philanthropic efforts. He supported various educational and social initiatives, aiming to improve the lives of the underprivileged. His legacy is marked by his commitment to journalistic integrity, innovation in media, and significant contributions to the Indian business landscape.

Passing and Tributes

Ramoji Rao passed away on June 8, 2024, at the age of 87. He was undergoing treatment in Hyderabad after being admitted to the hospital due to breathing difficulties. His death marks the end of an era in Indian media, and he is survived by his family, who continue to uphold his vision and principles.

Ramoji Rao’s life and work remain an inspiration to many, reflecting his indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to excellence in every field he touched.

Media Mogul Ramoji Rao

Ramoji Rao, who started the Eenadu newspaper on the shores of Visakhapatnam on August 10, 1974, trained thousands of journalists in the fields of journalism and media and served as a bridge between governments and the people for the last five decades. Besides being the Editor-in-Chief of the Telugu daily Eenadu, he was also a publisher and the head of several businesses, including Priya Foods, Kalanjali, and Guide Chit Funds. He is also renowned for building Ramoji Film City, the world’s largest film city. In 2016, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in recognition of his services.

Ramoji Rao was born on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi, Krishna district, to a simple farming family. His parents were Venkatasubbamma and Venkata Subbarao. Named after his grandfather, Ramoji Rao changed his name from Ramaya upon entering school. He completed his intermediate and B.Sc. education and married Ramadevi from Penamalur in 1961.

TrPM Modi, CM Revanth Reddy, and Chandrababu Naidu Pay Tributes to Ramoji Rao

Political leaders expressed shock over Ramoji Rao’s death. Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted that Ramoji Rao had left an indelible mark on journalism and cinema. TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu said the news left him deeply saddened, while former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu also expressed his shock. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy called Rao’s death a loss to Telugu press and media and has ordered that Ramoji Rao’s last rites be performed with government honors, marking the first time a media leader is being laid to rest with state honors.

The film industry also mourned Ramoji Rao’s death. Megastar Chiranjeevi described him as a towering figure and mourned his passing with an “Om Shanti.” Junior NTR expressed deep sadness, stating that the loss of the media and film tycoon could never be filled. Hero Ram Charan and his film crew observed two minutes of silence in Rajahmundry to honor him. Hero Rajendra Prasad, moved to tears, remembered being introduced to Telugu cinema through Usha Kiran Movies. Director Raghavendra Rao, and senior actors Naresh, Kalyan Ram, and Allu Aravind also paid tribute to Ramoji Rao.

Ramoji Rao’s contributions to journalism and cinema have left a lasting legacy, and his death marks the end of an era for the Telugu media and film industry.