From facilitating over 2,000 heart surgeries to providing financial aid to underprivileged students, the foundation embodies Ravishankar’s belief in using success to serve

V J M DIVAKAR | Hyderabad 

In a world yet to grasp the boundless potential of the internet, one man dared to dream. Twenty-six years ago, when the digital landscape was but a whisper, Kantamaneni Ravishankar, a visionary with a heart ablaze with creativity and a mind attuned to emerging technologies, took a leap into the unknown. What he built was not just a platform but a beacon—a digital revolution called TeluguOne that would light the way for millions. This is the story of a gentleman, a pioneer, and a legacy that continues to shine across the globe.

Ravishankar’s journey began with a spark of foresight in an era when the internet was a distant concept for most. With an unyielding passion for storytelling and an innate understanding of technology’s transformative power, he wove traditional content into the fabric of modern innovation. TeluguOne emerged as a household name, not just in India but wherever Telugu hearts beat across the world.

From news to web series, short films to reels, stand-up comedy to spiritual programs, literature to e-learning, Ravishankar’s platforms became a vibrant tapestry of meaningful, thought-provoking, and entertaining content. His genius lay in his ability to blend the timeless with the cutting-edge, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences across hundreds of platforms.

TeluguOne is more than a digital media empire; it is a movement. It introduced the world to web magazines, e-learning modules, and programs celebrating the richness of Indian languages. Among its crown jewels is TORI Radio, an internet-based station that has captured hearts globally, outshining traditional FM stations with its enchanting content.

With followers spanning continents, TORI delivers magic in every note, proving Ravishankar’s knack for creating platforms that resonate deeply. His vision extended beyond mainstream audiences, as seen in the creation of an exclusive radio station for the Banjara community—a groundbreaking initiative that became a smash hit, uniting a diaspora through the power of their language.

Ravishankar’s platforms have also been a cradle for creativity, nurturing talent that would shape the entertainment industry. Over the years, TeluguOne has served as a launchpad for countless film personalities—actors, directors, editors, cinematographers, writers, and lyricists—who took their first steps under its wings. From budding artists to celebrated stars, many owe their beginnings to the opportunities Ravishankar fostered. His platforms didn’t just create content; they crafted careers, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema and television.

At the heart of TeluguOne’s success is Ravishankar himself—a man whose compassion matches his ambition. A leader who inspires, he instills in his teams a shared vision of dedication and excellence. His commitment to societal good is evident in every facet of his work. TeluguOne doesn’t just entertain; it educates, uplifts, and heals.

The TeluguOne Foundation, a cornerstone of his legacy, stands as a pillar of hope for those in need. From facilitating over 2,000 heart surgeries to providing financial aid to underprivileged students, the foundation embodies Ravishankar’s belief in using success to serve. In times of crisis, his compassion shines brighter, offering support to communities facing natural calamities or personal hardships.

The numbers tell a story of impact: TeluguOne boasts over 1,500 movies, 2,500 short films, 15 web series, 11 million subscribers, 60,000 videos, and 8.8 billion views. Tone News, with 928,000 subscribers, delivers incisive political coverage, while BhaktiOne, with 1.7 million subscribers, offers spiritual solace to Telugu people worldwide.

KidsOne, a vibrant platform with 11 million subscribers, uses animation, VFX, and AI to teach moral stories in ten languages, igniting a love for learning in young minds. Telugu Health, with 350,000 subscribers, brings wellness wisdom to all, and TeluguOne Agriculture, with 145 million views and 400,000 subscribers, inspires farmers with valuable insights. TOne Academy stands out as a beacon of hope, offering free educational resources for competitive exams to underprivileged students in an era where education is often commercialized.

TeluguOne’s digital presence extends beyond video content. Teluguone.com serves as a bridge, connecting users to news, movies, literature, spirituality, health, and an NRI corner tailored for the diaspora. The TeluguOne Podcast delivers stories, personality development guidance, and spiritual content, while TORI Radio reaches Telugu listeners in over 100 countries, creating an intimate bond across borders. Each platform is a testament to Ravishankar’s vision of technology as a tool for societal good—a weapon wielded not for conquest but for connection.

From a modest beginning with 20 employees, TeluguOne has grown into an organization that directly employs a thousand and indirectly supports countless others. Its journey, marked by innovation and values, has spanned a quarter-century, yet its mission remains as vibrant as ever. TeluguOne doesn’t just entertain; it inspires, educates, and uplifts, standing at the forefront of initiatives for societal progress. Whether through groundbreaking content or humanitarian efforts, Ravishankar’s legacy is one of light—a light that guides, heals, and dreams.

As TeluguOne celebrates 26 years, it stands as a testament to one man’s vision that saw the world in the palm of a hand and gave it form. The milestones achieved are not just victories for an organization but a source of pride for Telugu people worldwide. Ravishankar’s story is a reminder that true pioneers don’t just build platforms; they build possibilities.

With every step forward, TeluguOne continues to weave technology, creativity, and compassion into a legacy that will inspire generations to come. For Ravishankar, who hails from a remote village Mopidevi in Krishna District which near Pedda Kallepalli village which gave stalwarts of the Telugu film industry such as Ghantasala, Susarla Daskhnina Murthy, Samudrala Senior, it is wonderful journey with bags of achivements.