Ramoji Film City founder Ramoji Rao dies. Jr NTR, Chiranjeevi pay tribute

New Delhi,UPDATED: Jun 8, 2024 09:14 IST

Ramoji Rao, media baron and founder of Eenadu and Ramoji Film City, died in Hyderabad on June 8. Several South celebs such as Jr NTR, Chiranjeevi, Manoj Manchu, Sudheer Babu, and others expressed their condolences on X.

Jr NTR wrote a long note in Telugu, paying tribute to Ramoji Rao. Loosely translated in English, his post can be read, "Visionaries like Sri Ramoji Rao are one in a million. A media tycoon and a giant of Indian cinema, his absence is irreparable. The news that he is no longer with us is very sad. I will never forget the memories when I was introduced to the Telugu film industry with the film 'Ninnu Choodalani'. May his soul rest in peace and convey my deepest condolences to his family."

Here's Chiranjeevi's tweet:

Manoj Manchu posted, "Deeply saddened by the loss of Ramoji Rao Garu. Since I was a child, I always looked up to him. His remarkable journey and legacy inspire us all. May his soul rest in peace. Sending strength to the family and loved ones. Om Shanti Will miss you dearly sir (sic)."

Sudheer Babu's post can be read, "Deeply saddened by the loss of Cherukuri Ramoji Rao garu, a visionary in the Indian media and film industry, left an indelible mark with his pioneering ventures. My heartfelt condolences to the near and dear ones. May his soul rest in peace Om Shanthi (sic)."

Vishnu Manchu wrote, "Deeply saddened by the passing of Ramoji Rao garu. Every time I had the fortune of meeting him, it was a profound life-learning lesson. His wisdom, courage, and righteousness left an indelible mark on me. He also was always supportive for the film industry. He built an empire that set unparalleled standards in journalism and entertainment. Today, there is a great void in the hearts of Telugu people and all who knew his immense contributions. India has lost one of its greatest media barons. His legacy will forever inspire us. My heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul #RestInPeace (sic)."

Filmmaker Madhur Sreedhar Reddy posted:

Politician-entrepreneur Jay Galla wrote: "Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Shri Ramoji Rao garu, a true visionary - from humble beginnings as an artist at an ad agency, to setting up one of the leading media houses in India and the world's largest film studio, his journey is an inspiration. My heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti! Shanti!! Shanti!!! (sic)."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telangana BJP chief and party MP G Kishan Reddy, too, offered their condolences.

According to ANI, Ramoji, 87, died while he was undergoing treatment at a hospital in the city. He breathed his last at 3.45 am.

Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, born on November 16, 1936, was a prominent Indian entrepreneur and media magnate renowned for his significant contributions to the Indian film industry and media landscape. He founded the world's largest film city, Ramoji Film City, located in Hyderabad, India, which spans over 2,000 acres and serves as a comprehensive facility for film production, including sets, studios, and post-production services. Ramoji Film City is not just a filming hub but also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.

Beyond his influence in the film industry, Ramoji Rao is the founder of the Eenadu Group, a major media conglomerate that includes Eenadu, one of the largest circulated Telugu-language daily newspapers. His media empire extends to television channels, film production companies, and various other businesses under the Ramoji Group.