The chairman of the Eenadu group, Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, passed away in Hyderabad at the age of 88. He was a versatile genius with accomplishments in media, hospitality, NBFC, food, and retail store chain. His last rites will be performed with full state honors on Sunday.
Ramoji Rao was honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 2016. He founded Eenadu, the largest circulated Telugu daily, and other successful ventures like ETV channels, Ramoji Film City, Dolphin hotels, Margadarsi Chit Fund, Ushakiran Movies, and Priya Foods. His businesses have provided jobs to thousands and impacted millions in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and beyond.
Born in 1936 in a middle-class farming family in coastal Andhra Pradesh, Ramoji Rao started his media journey with ‘Annadata’ magazine in 1969. Eenadu, founded in 1974 in Visakhapatnam, became the leading Telugu daily with its focus on local news and timely delivery to readers before sunrise.
Ramoji Rao’s role in the restoration of democracy during NTR’s coup in 1984 was a significant milestone. His relief fund efforts after natural disasters have led to the construction of houses and schools in multiple states. ETV was one of the first Telugu entertainment channels after Doordarshan’s monopoly ended.
Ramoji Film City holds the Guinness World Record as the largest film city, hosting numerous Indian films including blockbuster hits like ‘Bahubali’. His contributions to journalism and entertainment have left a lasting impact on the Telugu industry.
