Ramoji Rao Leaves a Lasting Legacy in Media and Film

The Indian media and entertainment industry mourns the loss of Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, a visionary entrepreneur, media mogul, and philanthropist, who passed away at the age of 87. Ramoji Rao, founder of the Ramoji Group, left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian journalism, film production, and media. His extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to becoming a pivotal figure in the media sector is a testament to his perseverance, innovation, and unyielding commitment to excellence.

Early Life and Education

Ramoji Rao was born on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi, a small village in Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh. Growing up in a poor agricultural family, Rao’s early life was marked by financial hardships. His father, Venkata Subbaiah, was a farmer, and his mother, Venkata Subamma, was a homemaker. Despite these challenges, Rao excelled academically and showed an early interest in literature and journalism.

Rao completed his primary education in his village and later attended the Government Arts College in Vijayawada, where he graduated with a degree in economics in 1958. His academic journey was marked by dedication and a passion for learning, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

Early Career and Journalism

After graduating, Ramoji Rao began his career as a journalist. He worked for several newspapers before moving to Delhi to join the Indian Express. It was during his time in Delhi that he met his future wife, Ramadevi. They married in 1962, and Rao soon returned to Andhra Pradesh to pursue his dream of creating a platform that would serve the needs of his community.

In 1964, Rao launched a small magazine called Annadata, aimed at farmers. The magazine covered topics such as agriculture, irrigation, and crop management, quickly gaining popularity among the rural population. Annadata’s success demonstrated Rao’s keen understanding of his audience’s needs and his ability to deliver relevant content.

The Birth of Eenadu

In 1974, Ramoji Rao founded the Eenadu newspaper. Launched with a modest beginning, Eenadu rapidly grew to become the largest Telugu-language daily newspaper in the world. With a circulation of over 10 million copies, Eenadu reached readers far and wide, establishing itself as a trusted source of news and information.

Eenadu’s success can be attributed to Rao’s visionary leadership and innovative approach. He introduced modern printing technologies and employed a network of correspondents to ensure comprehensive coverage of news. Rao’s commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence set new standards in Indian journalism, making Eenadu a household name.

Ramoji Film City: A Visionary Project

One of Ramoji Rao’s most ambitious projects was the creation of Ramoji Film City, inaugurated in 1996. Located near Hyderabad, Ramoji Film City spans over 1,666 acres and holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s largest film studio complex. This sprawling facility offers state-of-the-art amenities and diverse shooting locations, attracting filmmakers from around the globe.

Ramoji Film City has significantly boosted India’s film industry by providing a one-stop destination for film production. It includes more than 500 sets, ranging from urban landscapes to rural settings, enabling filmmakers to bring their creative visions to life. The facility also houses numerous production services, including editing, sound recording, and post-production, making it a comprehensive hub for the film industry.

Expansion into Television: ETV Network

Building on the success of Eenadu, Ramoji Rao ventured into television with the launch of the ETV Network. ETV quickly became one of the most popular television networks in India, broadcasting in multiple languages, including Telugu, Hindi, and English. The network’s diverse programming, which includes news, entertainment, and educational content, appealed to a broad audience.

ETV’s growth was driven by Rao’s innovative approach and commitment to quality. He invested in cutting-edge technology and employed talented professionals to ensure high production standards. ETV’s success further cemented Rao’s reputation as a media visionary and expanded his influence in the industry.

Margadarsi Chit Fund and Other Ventures

Ramoji Rao’s entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond media and entertainment. He founded the Margadarsi Chit Fund, a financial services company that offered savings and investment solutions to individuals and businesses. The success of Margadarsi Chit Fund demonstrated Rao’s versatility as a businessman and his ability to identify and capitalize on market opportunities.

Additionally, Rao ventured into the hospitality industry with the Dolphin Group of Hotels, providing high-quality accommodations and services in Andhra Pradesh. His diverse business portfolio showcased his acumen and adaptability, contributing to his overall success.

Priya Pickles: A Renowned Brand

In 1980, Ramoji Rao launched Priya Pickles, a brand that quickly became synonymous with high-quality, flavorful pickles. Priya Pickles offered a wide range of traditional and regional flavors, catering to diverse tastes. The brand’s commitment to quality and authenticity earned it a loyal customer base, making it a staple in Indian households and among Indian communities abroad.

Priya Pickles’ success reflected Rao’s ability to blend tradition with innovation, delivering products that resonated with consumers. The brand’s popularity further solidified Rao’s reputation as a multifaceted entrepreneur.

Awards and Recognitions

Ramoji Rao’s contributions to media, entertainment, and business were recognized with numerous awards and accolades. In 2016, he received the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, from then-President Pranab Mukherjee. This prestigious honor acknowledged Rao’s impact on the media industry and his role in shaping public discourse.

Throughout his career, Rao was also honored with the National Film Award for his work in the Telugu film industry, highlighting his contributions to Indian cinema. His visionary leadership and commitment to excellence earned him the respect and admiration of peers and the public alike.

Philanthropy and Social Impact

Ramoji Rao’s success was accompanied by a deep sense of social responsibility. He believed in giving back to the community and used his wealth and influence to support various charitable causes. His philanthropic efforts included initiatives in education, healthcare, and rural development, aimed at improving the lives of underprivileged individuals.

Rao’s commitment to social impact was evident in his support for educational institutions, scholarships for deserving students, and healthcare facilities in underserved areas. His philanthropic endeavors reflected his belief in using resources to create positive change and uplift society.

Inspirational Lessons from Ramoji Rao

Ramoji Rao’s life story offers numerous inspirational lessons:

1. Perseverance: Despite his humble beginnings and numerous challenges, Rao never gave up on his dreams. His persistence and determination enabled him to overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable success.
2. Innovation: Rao’s willingness to embrace new technologies and innovative approaches set him apart. His ability to adapt to changing times and continuously improve his businesses was key to his success.
3. Integrity: Rao’s commitment to journalistic integrity and ethical business practices earned him the trust and respect of his audience and peers. His dedication to quality and excellence was unwavering.
4. Generosity: Rao’s philanthropic efforts demonstrated his belief in using wealth to make a positive impact. His generosity and commitment to social causes serve as an example of how success can be used to benefit others.

Condolences and Tributes

Ramoji Rao’s passing has elicited an outpouring of condolences and tributes from across the media and entertainment industry. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy expressed his sorrow on Twitter, stating, “I am deeply saddened to know that Mr. Ramoji Rao, who was a pioneer of media and pioneered many reforms and values in the field of information, is no more. Ramoji Rao’s demise is a huge loss to the Telugu media sector, TV industry, and Telugu states. Praying to God for the peace of Ramoji Rao’s soul, I offer my deepest condolences to his family members.”

Final Thoughts

Ramoji Rao’s legacy is one of vision, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His contributions to journalism, film production, and media have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring future generations. As the world mourns his loss, Ramoji Rao’s achievements continue to shine brightly, serving as a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and the pursuit of dreams. His life and work will be remembered and celebrated for years to come, embodying the spirit of innovation and excellence that he championed throughout his remarkable career.