The Telugu film world is sad to say goodbye to Kota Srinivasa Rao. He was 83 and passed away at his home in Hyderabad on Sunday, July 13, 2025, after being ill for a while due to old age. Kota Srinivasa Rao was a great actor for over 40 years, and he starred in more than 750 movies. Lots of people came to his funeral to show their respect, including actors, politicians, and fans. Chiranjeevi, a huge star, put a wreath of red roses on Rao’s body. Prakash Raj, another actor, visited the family to offer his support. This piece is about Kota Srinivasa Rao’s life, what he did for cinema, and how people remembered him.
More Than Just Movies: A Life of Service
Kota Srinivasa Rao wasn’t just a movie star, he also cared about his community. He was an MLA for Vijayawada East from 1999 to 2004 with the BJP. He loved acting from the start, getting his first role in the 1978 film Pranam Khareedu. This was also Chiranjeevi’s first movie. Over time, Rao played all kinds of roles in famous films like Pratighatana, Satruvu, Ahana Pellanta, Hello Brother, Money, and Ram Gopal Varma’s Siva and Gaayam. Whether he was a bad guy, a funny character, or anything in between, people loved him.
Rao did more than just act. He won the Padma Shri award for everything he gave to Indian cinema and culture. As an MLA, he was dedicated to helping the people of Vijayawada. He was an actor, a politician, and someone who cared about culture, making him a person that everyone admired.
A Final Farewell
When Kota Srinivasa Rao died, many people in the Telugu film industry were upset. His funeral in Hyderabad became a place for people to remember him. Chiranjeevi, whose career started with Rao in Pranam Khareedu, was there. Chiranjeevi put a wreath of red roses on Rao’s body as a sign of respect. He also spent time comforting Rao’s family.
Prakash Raj went to Rao’s house to be with the family and share his sadness. The media was there to capture the moment, showing how much attention Rao’s death got. The actors showed how much they respected Rao.
Remembered by Politicians
Because Kota Srinivasa Rao did so much for both movies and politics, many leaders paid their respects. Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy said he was sad, saying that Rao did so much for Telugu movies. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on X that he was very sad about Rao’s death. He said that Rao’s acting in nearly 40 years would never be forgotten. Naidu also remembered Rao’s work as an MLA, saying that his death was a big loss for the film industry and the people of Vijayawada.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan said that he had a about Rao, remembering when they worked together in his first film, Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi. Kalyan liked how well Rao spoke Telugu, saying he was a great actor. He also said that their families were close.
M. Venkaiah Naidu, N. Ramchander Rao, and P.V.N. Madhav visited Rao’s house to pay their respects. Madhav said that Rao was a great actor and politician, describing him as kind and friendly. Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also said he was sad about Rao’s death, saying that his acting left a mark on the film industry.
G. Kishan Reddy and Kandula Durgesh also shared their sadness. Durgesh said that Rao was amazing in more than 750 movies, like S.V. Ranga Rao, Kaikala Satyanarayana, and Rao Gopal Rao. He said that Rao had taken the place of these actors, becoming a legend in Telugu cinema.
The Film Industry Remembers a Great Man
The Telugu film industry came together to celebrate Kota Srinivasa Rao. Jr. NTR, D. Suresh Babu, and Murali Mohan also shared their sadness. The film world showed how much Rao meant to them. Sivaji Raja told PTI that the funeral plans would be finished when Rao’s brother, Kota Sankar Rao, arrived in Hyderabad.
Rao could make any role special, whether he was a villain, a comedian, or a helpful friend. His acting felt real, and he understood Telugu culture and language. Films like Siva and Gaayam showed how he could play complicated characters, while Ahana Pellanta and Hello Brother showed his funny side. Because he could play any role, he was wanted in all kinds of movies, gaining many fans.
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s Lasting Influence
Kota Srinivasa Rao was a master of acting. For 40 years, he played all kinds of characters, and he made each one his own. He spoke Telugu well and could play any role. His work in Ram Gopal Varma’s Siva is still remembered for his villainous acting, while Pratighatana and Gaayam showed how he could with important social topics.
Besides movies, Rao also theatre. His acting was as good as his film roles, earning him praise. The Padma Shri award showed how much he contributed to the arts.
As an MLA, Rao was just as dedicated to helping people as he was to acting. He worked hard for the people of Vijayawada East, becoming known as a caring leader. He could balance acting and politics, showing how skilled he was.
Remembering a Life Well-Lived
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s death is the end of an era in Telugu cinema. He connected with people through his acting and his personality. The actors, politicians, and fans showed how much he affected them. From Chiranjeevi’s flowers to the kind words from Chief Ministers and actors, everyone admired Rao.
For Telugu cinema fans, Rao’s films will always remind them of his talent. Whether he was a scary villain or a funny man, Rao’s acting was always unforgettable. His work will encourage actors and filmmakers in the future, making sure he is never forgotten.
Why It’s Important to Remember Cultural Icons
The tributes to Kota Srinivasa Rao show why it’s important to recognize cultural icons. Actors like Rao do more than entertain; they keep their culture alive. Through his roles, Rao shared Telugu stories, traditions, and language, connecting people to their culture. He could play characters from all walks of life, representing the Telugu people.
The presence of politicians and film industry leaders at his funeral shows how Rao connected these two worlds. His life reminds us that art and public service can work together. People remember him and the meaning of storytelling.
Remembering Rao’s Influence
As the Telugu film industry says goodbye to Kota Srinivasa Rao, they want to keep his memory alive. Film festivals and tributes can introduce his work to new people. His films should be remembered for their artistic value. Also, recording his work in theatre and public service can show future generations how much he did.
For new actors, Rao’s career teaches about acting, dedication, and being true to yourself. He did well in many roles while staying true to his culture. By studying his acting, young actors can learn how to act well and connect with viewers.
Honoring Kota Srinivasa Rao: A Legacy in Cinema and Public Service
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kota Srinivasa Rao |
| Date of Passing | July 13, 2025 |
| Age | 83 years |
| Cause of Death | Age-related health issues |
| Place of Death | Hyderabad, Telangana |
| Total Films | Over 750 movies in Telugu and other Indian languages |
| Debut Film | Pranam Khareedu (1978) – Also the debut film of Chiranjeevi |
| Notable Films | Pratighatana, Siva, Gaayam, Ahana Pellanta, Satruvu, Hello Brother, Money, Ganesh, Madhura Nagarilo |
| Known For | Villainous roles, comic timing, powerful character roles, and versatility |
| Key Collaborations | Ram Gopal Varma, Chiranjeevi, Jr. NTR, Pawan Kalyan, Prakash Raj |
| Acting Style | Realistic dialogue delivery, mastery of Telugu dialects, intense screen presence |
| Padma Award | Padma Shri – Awarded for excellence in Indian cinema |
| Political Career | Former BJP MLA from Vijayawada East (1999–2004) |
| Public Service | Focused on constituency development and grassroots service |
| Theatre Background | Renowned stage actor before entering films; deeply respected in Telugu theatre circles |
| Key Funeral Attendees | Chiranjeevi, Prakash Raj, Pawan Kalyan, Jr. NTR, D. Suresh Babu, Murali Mohan, Sivaji Raja |
| Tributes from Political Leaders | A. Revanth Reddy, N. Chandrababu Naidu, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Pawan Kalyan, Venkaiah Naidu, G. Kishan Reddy, P.V.N. Madhav, N. Ramchander Rao |
| Chiranjeevi’s Tribute | Placed a wreath of red roses; bowed to Rao’s portrait; offered condolences to the family |
| Prakash Raj’s Tribute | Visited Rao’s residence personally to offer condolences |
| Pawan Kalyan’s Tribute | Remembered his debut with Rao; praised his command over language and acting |
| Legacy Comparisons | Compared to S.V. Ranga Rao, Rao Gopal Rao, Kaikala Satyanarayana by Minister Kandula Durgesh |
| Fan Impact | Beloved across generations; admired for delivering relatable and authentic characters |
| Industry Reaction | United mourning from all sectors—cinema, politics, theatre |
| Preserving His Legacy | Suggested through retrospectives, film festivals, documentaries, and educational material for acting students |
| Inspiration for Future Actors | His career is a blueprint for aspiring actors—dedicated, versatile, and grounded |
| Cultural Importance | Promoted Telugu traditions, language, and societal values through his roles |
| Lasting Message | A legend whose art, service, and humility will continue to inspire and educate future generations |
In Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s death is a great loss, but his work will continue to inspire. From his first role in Pranam Khareedu to his last, Rao did so much for Telugu cinema and culture. The tributes from Chiranjeevi, Prakash Raj, and others show how much he was loved. People say goodbye to this legend, grateful for the memories he gave them.
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s films will continue to be a treasure of stories, and his work in public service will continue to encourage. His life showed the importance of art and a life well-lived. The Telugu film industry will remember this actor, making sure his name lives on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Kota Srinivasa Rao’s Legacy and Funeral
Who was Kota Srinivasa Rao and why is he celebrated in Telugu cinema?
Kota Srinivasa Rao was a legendary actor in Telugu cinema with a career spanning over four decades and more than 750 films. Known for his powerful performances in villainous, comedic, and character roles, he became a household name in Indian cinema. He also served as an MLA from Vijayawada East and was a Padma Shri awardee.
When and how did Kota Srinivasa Rao pass away?
Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 83, due to age-related ailments. He breathed his last at his residence in Hyderabad, leaving behind a legacy that touched millions.
Which celebrities and politicians attended Kota Srinivasa Rao’s funeral?
His funeral saw an outpouring of love from stars and leaders alike. Notable attendees included Chiranjeevi, Prakash Raj, Jr. NTR, Murali Mohan, and producer D. Suresh Babu, as well as political dignitaries like CM Revanth Reddy, CM Chandrababu Naidu, Pawan Kalyan, Venkaiah Naidu, and G. Kishan Reddy.
What were Kota Srinivasa Rao’s most iconic films?
Some of his most memorable works include Siva, Gaayam, Ahana Pellanta, Hello Brother, Pratighatana, Satruvu, and Money. His roles in both commercial and art-house films showcased his extraordinary versatility and command over the craft.
What awards and recognitions did Kota Srinivasa Rao receive in his lifetime?
Kota Srinivasa Rao received the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, in recognition of his invaluable contributions to Indian cinema and culture.
Did Kota Srinivasa Rao contribute to politics as well?
Yes. Apart from being a revered actor, he served as a BJP MLA from Vijayawada East (1999–2004). He was known for his humility, service-mindedness, and connection with the local people.
What kind of tributes were paid to Kota Srinivasa Rao by film and political leaders?
Film stars like Chiranjeevi laid wreaths and bowed to his mortal remains, while Prakash Raj visited his home to offer condolences. Political leaders, including Pawan Kalyan, Chandrababu Naidu, and Jagan Mohan Reddy, shared emotional tributes, recalling his cinematic brilliance and public service.
What was unique about Kota Srinivasa Rao’s acting style?
Rao was known for his command of Telugu dialects, nuanced character portrayal, and ability to seamlessly shift between comedy, villainy, and serious roles. His authenticity made every character memorable, whether in films or on stage.
How will the Telugu film industry preserve Kota Srinivasa Rao’s legacy?
Plans include retrospective film festivals, documentaries, and stage tributes that celebrate his cinematic and political contributions. His performances are also expected to be included in film school curricula and cultural archives.
Why is Kota Srinivasa Rao considered a cultural icon beyond cinema?
Rao wasn’t just an actor—he was a cultural ambassador of Telugu tradition. Through his portrayal of native characters, dialects, and social themes, he helped preserve and promote the richness of Telugu heritage across generations.
What message does Kota Srinivasa Rao’s life leave for future generations?
His journey teaches young actors and leaders the values of dedication, humility, and authenticity. Whether on screen or in public service, Rao exemplified how one can leave a lasting impact through integrity and passion.