Indian film mogul turned 87

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The last respects were paid to Indian media magnate Ramoji Rao, who died at the age of 87.

Rao, head of Ramoji Film City and ETV Network, died on Saturday, June 8, after a brief hospital stay in Hyderabad.

Indian media reports that the Telangana government has decided to give the indefatigable businessman an official state funeral. Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi expressed his grief in a statement on social media:

“The demise of Shri Ramoji Rao Garu is extremely sad. He was a visionary who revolutionised Indian media. His valuable contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism and the world of films. Through his remarkable efforts, he set new standards of innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world,” Modi said in a post on X.

“Ramoji Rao Garu was extremely passionate about the development of India. I was fortunate to have several opportunities to speak with him and benefit from his wisdom. My condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers during this difficult time. Om Shanti,”

Born in 1936 in a village in the Madras region of India, Cheruki “Ramoji” Rao went on to head the Ramoji group of companies, which owned the world’s largest film production facility, Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. His many other business ventures included the Dolphin group of hotels and Mayuri Film Distributors.

For his film work, Rao has received four Filmfare Awards South, five Nandi Awards and the National Film Award for his work in Telugu cinema. Eight years ago, he received the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian award, for his services to journalism, literature and education.