In the early hours of Saturday, the world bid farewell to a titan of the media industry, Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, the esteemed founder of Eenadu and Ramoji Film City. At the age of 87, he took his last breath at 3:45 while undergoing treatment at Star Hospital in Hyderabad. His legacy, however, will continue to illuminate the realms of journalism and entertainment for generations to come
He led the Ramoji Group, overseeing a wide arrays of assets, such as the Ramoji Film City, the largest film production facility in the world.
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Remembering Ramoji Rao: A Tribute to the Media Mogul Who Created History
Furthermore, the group owned well-known media entities such as the Eenadu newspaper, the ETV Network of television channels, and the film production company Usha Kiran Movies.
In addition to these ventures, he was involved in diverse business endeavors such as Margadarsi Chit Fund, the Dolphin Group of hotels, Kalanjali shopping mall, Priya pickles, and Mayuri Film Distributors. He also held the position of chairman of the Editors Guild of India.
Ramoji Film City: A Vision Realized
The Ramoji Film City has been acknowledged by the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest film city.This recognition is based on its vast expanse of 1,666 acres (674 ha), making it the largest film studio complex globally.
Ramoji Rao’s entrepreneurial vision led to the creation of Ramoji Film City, the largest film studio complex in the world. It became a center for cinematic creativity, accommodating numerous productions, including the groundbreaking ‘Bahubali’ series.
Rise of Eenadu: Revolutionizing Print Media
Ramoji Rao established the Eenadu newspaper in Visakhapatnam in 1974, and it revolutionized the newspaper industry in undivided Andhra Pradesh. It is the most widely circulated Telugu daily, with multiple editions. Under Rao’s leadership, known for his dedication to being on time, Eenadu set a new standard by consistently reaching readers before sunrise, unlike the previous practice of delayed deliveries.
The newspaper’s campaign ‘to restore democracy’ during the displacement of TDP founder N T Rama Rao from power in 1984, which led to NTR returning to power, is a significant achievement in Ramoji Rao’s life.
Eenadu has introduced several Telugu words with the rise of the internet, which have become a part of the Telugu language.
ETV Network: Revolutionizing Satellite Entertainment
ETV became one of the first satellite entertainment channels in Telugu, breaking the monopoly previously held by Doordarshan. It quickly became a well-known channel in many households.
ETV’s network of channels grew rapidly, including ETV news in Telugu and other languages such as Kannada, Bengali, Hindi, and more.
‘Padutha Teeyaga’, a music show hosted by the late S P Balasubrahmanyam for nearly two decades on ETV, introduced numerous aspiring singers.
The Priya brand of pickles made by Priya Foods is widely recognized in many parts of the country and is also popular in foreign countries like the US.
Tribute to Ramoji Rao
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sorrow at the passing of Ramoji Rao, acknowledging him as a visionary who transformed Indian media. Modi highlighted Rao’s significant impact on journalism and the film industry, noting that his remarkable contributions set new benchmarks for innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment sphere.
Pm Narendra Modi Tweets “The passing away of Shri Ramoji Rao Garu is extremely saddening. He was a visionary who revolutionized Indian media. His rich contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism and the world of films. Through his noteworthy efforts, he set new standards for innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world. Ramoji Rao Garu was extremely passionate about India’s development. I am fortunate to have got several opportunities to interact with him and benefit from his wisdom. Condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers during this difficult time. Om Shanti.”
President Droupadi Murmu also extended her condolences on the passing of Rao. She expressed that with the demise of Ramoji Rao, India has lost a key figure in the media and entertainment industry.
President Murmu tweets
“An innovative entrepreneur, he pioneered many ventures, including the Eenadu newspaper, ETV news network and Ramoji Film City. Honoured with Padma Vibhushan, he succeeded as his vision was essentially rooted in society. His contributions to this industry will be long remembered. My condolences to his familyand well-wishers”
According to reports, Ramoji Rao had fought and won against colon cancer a few years ago.
In 2016, he was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, by then-President Pranab Mukherjee.
The Telangana Government chose to conduct the final ceremonies for Ramoji Rao with state honors.
The Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, instructed officials to supervise the organization of the final ceremonies with state honors. This oversight will be conducted through the Chief Secretary to the Rangareddy Collector and the Cyberabad Commissioner.
Tributes and Legacy: A Visionary Remembered
As tributes poured in from all corners of the nation, Cherukuri Ramoji Rao was the one who revolutionized Indian media and left an indelible mark on journalism and the world of films. Ramoji Rao’s remarkable contributions have set new standards in innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world. His pioneering spirit and dedication have not only transformed the industry but have also inspired countless individuals.
Ramoji Rao’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide generations to come. His impact on the media and entertainment sector will be remembered as a testament to his unwavering commitment and vision.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to shine brightly in the hearts and minds of those he has touched.
