Ramoji Rao passed away on Saturday, June 1st, 2024 at the age of 87. He was a prominent media baron and the founder of Eenadu and Ramoji Film City. Many mourned his passing, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi who acknowledged his significant contributions to Indian media.
India lost a media giant with the passing of Ramoji Rao at the age of 87. His life story is a remarkable one, filled with ambition, hard work, and a lasting impact on Indian media and filmmaking. Let’s have a look at his journey.
From Teacher to Media Mogul
Ramoji Rao’s journey began in a small village in Andhra Pradesh. Born in 1936, he started his career as a teacher. However, his true calling lay in the world of media. In 1973, he took a big leap of faith by launching a Telugu-language news magazine called “Eenadu,” meaning “the only one.”
Eenadu’s focus was simple: provide clear and concise news that resonated with the common people. Rao understood the power of regional languages and the importance of local stories. His vision paid off – Eenadu quickly gained popularity, becoming a trusted source of news for Telugu speakers.
This wasn’t the end of Rao’s ambitions. He expanded Eenadu into a full-fledged newspaper, eventually launching editions in other languages. Under his leadership, the Eenadu Group grew into a media powerhouse, encompassing newspapers, television channels, and digital platforms. Rao’s journey from a small-town teacher to a media mogul is an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Building Ramoji Film City: A Dream of Ramoji Rao Takes Shape
Rao’s passion wasn’t limited to just news. He was also a huge cinema fan. In 1996, he turned his dream of a world-class film studio into reality by establishing Ramoji Film City. Located in Hyderabad, this massive complex spread over 1,600 acres is the largest integrated film studio facility in Asia.
Ramoji Film City offered filmmakers everything they needed under one roof – state-of-the-art studios, diverse shooting locations, and top-notch infrastructure. This one-stop shop revolutionized Indian filmmaking, attracting productions from Bollywood blockbusters to regional cinema. Hyderabad, thanks to Ramoji Film City, became a major filmmaking hub in India.
A Champion for Social Causes and Journalism
Ramoji Rao wasn’t just interested in business success. He was also a strong advocate for social causes and a firm believer in the importance of a free press. He used his media platforms to raise awareness about issues like poverty, illiteracy, and gender inequality. His newspapers and television channels gave a voice to the marginalized and held those in power accountable.
Rao’s commitment to journalism was unwavering. He believed that the press played a crucial role in a democracy, acting as a watchdog against corruption and injustice. He encouraged his team to pursue investigative journalism and hold powerful people accountable for their actions. His contribution to Indian journalism is immense, and his dedication will serve as an inspiration for future journalists.
A Life of Recognition and Achievements
Ramoji Rao’s remarkable achievements didn’t go unnoticed. He received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors. He was respected by his peers and admired by his competitors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself expressed condolences upon Rao’s passing, calling him a visionary leader who left a lasting impact on Indian media and cinema.
Here’s an expansion on the recognition Ramoji Rao received during his liftime:
- National Recognition: Ramoji Rao’s achievements transcended the media world. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, by the President of India. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional and distinguished service in any field.
- Industry Respect: Rao wasn’t just a successful businessman; he was a respected figure within the Indian media and film industry. His peers admired his vision, leadership, and contributions to the field. He wasn’t seen as a cutthroat competitor, but rather someone who elevated the industry as a whole.
- Prime Ministerial Tribute: Following Rao’s passing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself offered condolences. This act highlighted the national significance of Rao’s achievements. The Prime Minister’s statement likely emphasized Rao’s role in shaping Indian media and cinema, solidifying his legacy as a visionary leader who left a lasting impact.
A Legacy that Continues
Ramoji Rao’s story is one of hard work, dedication, and leaving a lasting legacy. He rose from humble beginnings to become a media titan, creating a media empire that continues to thrive. The Eenadu Group and Ramoji Film City stand as testaments to his vision and entrepreneurial spirit.
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While India mourns the loss of a media giant, Ramoji Rao’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations. The institutions he built and the lives he touched will ensure that his name remains etched in the history of Indian media and cinema.
