Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday mourned the passing of veteran actor and former BJP MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao, who died at the age of 83 following a prolonged illness.
On X, PM Modi wrote: “Anguished by the passing of Shri Kota Srinivas Rao Garu. He will be remembered for his cinematic brilliance and versatility… He was also at the forefront of social service and worked towards empowering the poor and downtrodden. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”
Rao passed away at his residence in Filmnagar, Hyderabad. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. Renowned for his memorable performances across Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema, his prolific career spanned over four decades, with appearances in more than 750 films.
Born on July 10, 1942, in Kanakipadu, Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, Rao began as a stage artist before making his film debut in 1978 with Pranam Khareedu, which also starred Chiranjeevi.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rao received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 2015 and several Nandi Awards. He also served as a BJP MLA representing Vijayawada East from 1999 to 2004.
In recent weeks, his health had deteriorated due to age-related ailments. Fans expressed concern after a recent photo of him circulated on social media. He had also endured personal loss in 2010, when his only son, Kota Venkata Anjaneya Prasad, died in a road accident.
Tributes have poured in from across the film industry and political circles in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, celebrating Rao’s enduring legacy in Indian cinema and public service.
