metro india news  I hyderabad

In the early hours of Sunday, the Telugu film industry woke to a profound loss that reverberated across the hearts of millions. Veteran actor and Padma Shri awardee Kota Srinivasa Rao, a towering figure in Indian cinema, breathed his last at his residence in Filmnagar, Hyderabad, at the age of 83. His passing, just two days after celebrating his 83rd birthday, marked the end of an era—an era defined by unparalleled versatility, commanding screen presence, and a legacy that will forever remain etched in the annals of Telugu cinema.

Born in 1942 in Andhra Pradesh’s Krishna district, Kota Srinivasa Rao embarked on a cinematic journey that spanned over four decades, beginning with his debut in the 1978 Telugu film Pranam Khareedu. This film, which also marked the entry of Tollywood megastar Chiranjeevi, was the starting point of a career that would see Rao grace over 750 films across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema. From villainous roles that sent shivers down the spine to comedic characters that left audiences in stitches, Rao’s ability to breathe life into every role was nothing short of extraordinary.

Kota Srinivasa Rao was not just an actor; he was a chameleon of emotions, a master of the nava rasas—the nine emotions that define Indian performing arts. Whether it was the menacing antagonist in Gaayam (1993), the comedic genius in Aha Naa Pellanta, or the poignant character roles in films like Aa Naluguru (2004), Rao’s performances were marked by an effortless authenticity.

His unique Telangana dialect, razor-sharp delivery, and ability to convey humor, sarcasm, or menace with a single glance made him a beloved figure among audiences and a revered artist among peers. As actor Jr NTR poignantly noted, “Kota Srinivasa Rao… just the name is enough. An unparalleled acting talent.”

The Telugu film industry, often referred to as Tollywood, owes much of its emotional depth to actors like Rao, who could elevate even the smallest roles into unforgettable moments. His collaborations with stars like Chiranjeevi, Venkatesh, and Ravi Teja were legendary, with films like Nee Kosam, Mirapakay, and Gabbar Singh showcasing his ability to steal scenes effortlessly.

Chiranjeevi, visibly heartbroken at Rao’s funeral, shared a deeply personal tribute, recalling their shared beginnings in Pranam Khareedu. “The void left by an actor like Sri Kota Srinivasa Rao is one that the film industry and cinephiles will never overcome,” he wrote, his words echoing the sentiments of millions. Beyond his cinematic contributions, Rao’s life was a tapestry of service and resilience. A former BJP MLA from Vijayawada East (1999–2004), he brought the same dedication to public life that he did to his craft. 

His philanthropy, though less publicized, touched countless lives, reflecting a man whose heart was as large as his talent. Yet, his life was not without personal tragedy. The loss of his son and the emotional toll it took in his later years added a layer of poignancy to his story, reminding us of the human behind the legend.

The outpouring of grief from the film fraternity and political leaders alike underscores the magnitude of Rao’s impact. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described his demise as “deeply saddening,” noting that “the numerous memorable roles he played as a villain and character artist will forever stay etched in the hearts of Telugu audiences.” Actors like Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who called him “irreplaceable,” and Vishnu Manchu, who mourned the loss of his contributions, joined a chorus of tributes that spanned generations. Former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and Telangana BJP chief N. Ramchander Rao paid their respects, with the latter noting that Rao’s death left the entire cine industry in mourning.

Kota Srinivasa Rao’s final screen appearance in the 2023 film Suvarna Sundari and his upcoming role in Pawan Kalyan’s Hari Hara Veera Mallu serve as poignant reminders of his enduring commitment to his craft, even in his later years. His nine Nandi Awards and the prestigious Padma Shri in 2015 stand as testaments to a career that transcended regional boundaries, with roles in Bollywood films like Sarkar and Rakta Charitra showcasing his versatility to a wider audience.

As fans and colleagues mourn, the sentiment on social media captures the depth of this loss. One X user wrote, “His unmatched versatility and powerful presence made every role unforgettable. This void will never be filled.” Another described him as embodying “the poignant beauty of life’s impermanence,” a nod to the grace with which he touched hearts.

Kota Srinivasa Rao was more than an actor; he was a cultural institution, a bridge between generations of cinephiles, and a storyteller who made us laugh, cry, and reflect. His Telangana accent, his commanding presence, and his ability to make every character unforgettable will continue to inspire actors and audiences alike. As we bid farewell to this legend, we are reminded of the fleeting nature of life and the enduring power of art. Rest in peace, Kota garu—your legacy will live on in the hearts of Telugu audiences and beyond, an irreplaceable light that will never dim.