Born to an ordinary family on 16 November 1936 and rose to extraordinary achievements, Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, the much-known media tycoon and founder of Eenadu and Ramoji Film City, took his last breath at 3:45 am on Saturday at the age of 87. Ramoji was undergoing medical treatment at Star Hospital in Hyderabad.Media Baron and A Visionary LeaderRamoji Rao was a prominent Indian media baron, businessman, and film producer. He was best known as the founder of the Ramoji Group, which operates in various sectors including media, entertainment, financial services, and hospitality. He was a visionary leader and the chairman of the Eenadu Group, which publishes Eenadu, one of the largest circulated Telugu-language newspapers. The group also operates ETV Network, a major television network in India with numerous channels in various regional languages and a film production company called Usha Kiran Movies.Ramoji Film City: He established Ramoji Film City in 1996 in Hyderabad, which is one of the largest integrated film studios in the world. It is a popular tourist destination and a major center for film production in India.Financial Services: Under his leadership, the Ramoji Group also ventured into financial services with Margadarsi Chit Fund, one of the largest chit fund companies in India. He also ventured into the Dolphin group of hotels, Kalanjali Shopping Mall, Priya Pickles and Mayuri Film Distributors.Awards and Recognition: Ramoji Rao has received several awards for his contributions to the media and entertainment industries. He has garnered 4 Filmfare Awards South, 5 Nandi Awards and the National Film Award for his works in Telugu cine. He was also honored with the Padma Vibhushan, Indias second-highest civilian award, which was conferred upon him in 2016, for his contributions to journalism, literature and journalism. Philanthropy: Apart from his business ventures, Ramoji Rao is known for his philanthropic activities, including contributions to education and healthcare.Ramoji Raos influence extends across various industries, making him a significant figure in Indian media and business.Tributes from the film fraternity and political leadersAll the film fraternity and political leaders have mourned the loss of the legend. Junior NTR to Chiranjeevi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi to N Chandrababu Naidu and several other prominent figures expressed their condolences. They all recalled his visionary contribution to the media industry.శ్రీ రామోజీ రావు గారు లాంటి దార్శనీకులు నూటికో కోటికో ఒకరు. మీడియా సామ్రాజ్యాధినేత మరియూ భారతీయ సినిమా దిగ్గజం అయినటువంటి ఆయన లేని లోటు ఎప్పటికీ పూడ్చలేనటువంటిది. ఆయన మన మధ్యన ఇక లేరు అనే వార్త చాలా బాధాకరం.నిన్ను చూడాలని చిత్రంతో నన్ను తెలుగు సినీ పరిశ్రమకి పరిచయం… pic.twitter.com/ly5qy3nVUm— Jr NTR (@tarak9999) June 8, 2024The 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… pic.twitter.com/siC7aSHUxK— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 8, 2024
