Ramoji Rao, 5 facts about the founder of Ramoji Film City
Ramoji Rao, the head of ETV Network and the founder of Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City, passed away early Saturday at the age of 87. He had been admitted to Star Hospital in Hyderabad on June 5 due to high blood pressure and breathlessness.
Ramoji Rao 5 facts about the founder of Ramoji Film City
Early Life: Cherukuri Ramoji Rao was born on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi, Andhra Pradesh, into a farmer’s family. His parents, Venkata Subbarao and Venkata Subbamma, named him Ramayya in memory of his grandfather, a name he later changed to “Ramoji.”
Education and Early Career: Rao attended Gudivada Municipal High School and earned a B.Sc degree from Gudivada College. After completing his education, he began his career in Delhi as an artist for an advertising agency.
Founding Eenadu: On August 10, 1974, Rao founded the Telugu daily Eenadu in Visakhapatnam. The newspaper quickly gained popularity, becoming a leading publication within four years. It will celebrate its 50th anniversary in August this year.
Entrepreneurial Ventures: Rao established Ramoji Film City, the world’s largest film studio, and headed the ETV Network of television channels. He also chaired the Margadarshi Group of Companies, overseeing various businesses, including Margadarsi Chit Fund, Priya Foods, and Kalanjali.
Awards and Recognition: In 2016, Rao was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, by then-President Pranab Mukherjee.