Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], June 8 (ANI): Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman paid her tribute to Eenadu and Ramoji Film City founder Ramoji Rao on Saturday.
Ramoji Rao passed away while undergoing treatment at Star Hospital in Hyderabad early morning on Saturday.
Earlier in the day Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu paid tribute to Ramoji Rao.
"The death of Ramoji Rao, who was born in an ordinary family and achieved extraordinary achievements, caused great grief. As an Akshara Yodha, Ramoji rendered many services to the Telugu states and the country. His death is a great loss not only for the Telugu people but for the country as well. His fame for working tirelessly for the welfare of society is eternal," Naidu said in a post on X.
"I was associated with Ramoji Rao for 4 decades. His way of saying good is good and bad is bad brought me closer to him. He is an inspiration to me in fighting problems. Ramoji's suggestions and advice were always high in providing good policies to the people. My deepest condolences to the family members of Ramoji and the staff of the Eenadu Group of Companies on his death. I pray that Ramoji Rao's soul rest in peace," Naidu said.
Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi also expressed deep grief over the demise of Ramoji Film City founder, Ramoji Rao. He emphasised Rao's impact on Indian media, recognising him as a pioneer who reshaped the media industry.
Taking to his official X handle, Modi said, "The passing away of Ramoji Rao Garu is extremely saddening. He was a visionary who revolutionised 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."
Telangana CM Reddy expressed shock at Rao's passing, highlighting his contributions to Telugu journalism and industry.
"Today, the death of leader, eminent industrialist, and Padma Vibhushan awardee Cherukuri Ramoji Rao has caused a great shock," he said in a post on X.
He further said that Rao is credited with adding credibility to Telugu journalism and value to the Telugu industrial sector.
"The Telugu press and media sector will never be able to fill the gap left by Ramoji Rao. Praying to God to rest his soul in peace. My deepest condolences to the family members," he added.
Ramoji Rao's legacy is vast, encompassing numerous successful business ventures and media productions. Under his leadership, Eenadu became a major force in Telugu media.
His other business ventures include the film production house Usha Kiran Movies, the film distribution company Mayuri Film Distributors, the financial services firm Margadarsi Chit Fund, and the hotel chain Dolphin Group of Hotels. He was also the head of the ETV Network of television channels.
In 2016, he received the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, from then-President Pranab Mukherjee. (ANI)
