Leaders and celebrities mourn the passing of media mogul Ramoji Rao

HYDERABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu, and other personalities from politics, cinema, and various sectors have expressed deep condolences over the demise of media mogul and Eenadu Group Chairman Ramoji Rao on Saturday.

"The passing away of Shri Ramoji Rao Garu is extremely saddening. He was a visionary who revolutionized Indian media. His rich contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism and the world of films. Through his noteworthy efforts, he set new standards for innovation and excellence in the media and entertainment world," PM Modi said in his tweet.

He added, "Ramoji Rao was extremely passionate about India’s development. I am fortunate to have had several opportunities to interact with him and benefit from his wisdom. Condolences to his family, friends, and countless admirers during this difficult time. Om Shanti," while sharing a picture with Ramoji Rao.

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, in a condolence message, expressed deep shock at the demise of Ramoji Rao. The Chief Minister said that the passing away of Ramoji Rao is a significant loss to the Telugu press, media, and business sectors. He credited Ramoji Rao with enriching the integrity of Telugu journalism and providing new direction to the media sector.

CM Revanth Reddy hailed Ramoji Rao for spreading Telugu glory at the national level. He described Ramoji Rao as a great person who gave utmost importance to values and credibility in any sector. He noted that Ramoji Rao, a visionary, ran Eenadu as the number one news daily for more than five decades, even during challenging times, and laid a strong foundation for the TV industry by establishing ETV.

The Chief Minister recalled his recent meeting with Ramoji Rao at Ramoji Film City. "The passing away of the Eenadu Group Chairman is a big loss to the media and business sectors. I pray to God that the departed soul may rest in peace and convey my deep sympathies to the bereaved family members," he said.

TDP President Chandrababu Naidu said that the death of Ramoji Rao had caused great shock to him. "The death of Mr. Ramoji Rao, who was born in an ordinary family and achieved extraordinary accomplishments, has caused great grief. As an 'Akshara Yodha,' Shri Ramoji rendered many services to the Telugu states and the country. Sri Ramoji is an asset of the Telugu people who left a highly influential mark on their lives. His death is a great loss not only for the Telugu people but for the country as well. His fame for working tirelessly for the welfare of society is eternal. Today, thousands of people have been employed due to the establishment of group companies."

Naidu emphasized that Ramoji Rao had a unique era in the field of media. "Overcoming many challenges and problems, Mr. Ramoji Rao ran the organization with values without giving up, which is ideal for everyone. In his journey of decades, Ramoji Rao always worked for the good of the people and the welfare of society. He was a pinnacle in the field of media, and we are unable to digest the fact that he is no more," he said.

"I have been associated with Sri Ramoji Rao for four decades. His way of calling good good and bad bad brought me closer to him. He is an inspiration to me in fighting problems. Sri Ramoji's suggestions and advice were always high in providing good policies to the people. My deepest condolences to the family members of Mr. Ramoji and the staff of the Eenadu Group of Companies on his death. I pray that Ramoji Rao's soul rests in peace," he added.

BRS President and former Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao condoled the demise of Ramoji Rao.

KCR remembered his services as a businessman in many fields and as a founder of media companies. He expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family members.

BRS Working President K Taraka Rama Rao said, "Very saddened to learn about the demise of media doyen and a true visionary Sri Cherukuri Ramoji Rao Garu."

"Ramoji Garu was a self made man whose story is inspirational. His life & his journey is a testament of how one can achieve great success despite all odds. He has left an indelible mark in the Telugu media & entertainment world. He was a very warm & affectionate person with whom I’ve had the privilege of interacting several times over the last decade. Will always cherish his kind words & hope the Big man rests in peace. My heartfelt condolences to his family & friends in this difficult time," KTR said in a Tweet.

Film star Chiranjeevi described Ramoji Rao as a mountain who never bowed down before any time.

Junior NTR tweeted, "Visionaries like Sri Ramoji Rao are one in a million. A media tycoon and a giant of Indian cinema, his absence is irreparable. The news that he is no longer with us is very sad. I will never forget the memories when I was introduced to the Telugu film industry with the film 'Ninnu Chhadalani.' May his soul rest in peace, and I convey my deepest condolences to his family."