Today on 8 june , Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, the visionary behind ETV, and Ramoji Film City, has sadly passed away at 87 in Hyderabad. He had been undergoing treatment and breathed his last at 4:50 am, as confirmed by ETV Telangana.
Ramoji Rao: A Titan of Media and Entrepreneurship
In the dynamic world of media and entrepreneurship, few names resonate as profoundly as Ramoji Rao’s. Born on November 16, 1936, in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, Ramoji Rao’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a pioneering figure in the media industry is nothing short of remarkable.
Early Life and Education
Ramoji Rao’s early life was marked by modesty and perseverance. Growing up in a middle-class family, he imbibed the values of hard work and determination from a young age. Despite facing financial constraints, he pursued his education with zeal and graduated with a degree in commerce from Osmania University.
The Rise of a Media Mogul
Ramoji Rao’s foray into the media industry began in the early 1960s when he founded the Eenadu newspaper. What started as a regional publication soon burgeoned into one of the largest circulated dailies in India. Under his astute leadership, Eenadu revolutionized the Telugu print media landscape, setting new benchmarks for journalistic integrity and editorial excellence.
Embracing the winds of change, Ramoji Rao diversified his media empire by venturing into television broadcasting. In 1995, he launched ETV (Eenadu Television), a Telugu-language satellite television channel. ETV’s innovative programming and commitment to quality swiftly garnered a massive viewership, cementing Ramoji Rao’s status as a visionary media tycoon.
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Landmark Achievements and Contributions
Ramoji Rao’s contributions to the media industry extend far beyond the realms of print and television. In 1996, he unveiled the Ramoji Film City, a sprawling cinematic utopia situated on the outskirts of Hyderabad. Spanning over 1,600 acres, it stands as the largest integrated film city in the world, attracting filmmakers and tourists from across the globe.
With state-of-the-art infrastructure and meticulous attention to detail, Ramoji Film City has played host to innumerable film shoots, ad campaigns, and cultural events. Its unrivaled facilities and breathtaking locales have earned accolades from industry stalwarts and transformed Hyderabad into a thriving hub for the Indian film industry.
Ramoji Rao’s commitment to social welfare and philanthropy is equally commendable. Through the Ushodaya Enterprises Charitable Trust, he has initiated numerous initiatives aimed at empowering underprivileged communities, promoting education, and preserving cultural heritage.
Legacy and Influence
As a trailblazer in the media landscape, Ramoji Rao’s legacy is etched in the annals of Indian journalism and entertainment. His visionary outlook, coupled with an unwavering commitment to excellence, continues to inspire generations of aspiring entrepreneurs and media professionals.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Ramoji Rao remains a revered figure, admired for his humility, integrity, and dedication to public service. His remarkable journey from a small-town entrepreneur to a global media magnate serves as a testament to the transformative power of ambition and perseverance.
Conclusion
In the tapestry of India’s socio-cultural fabric, Ramoji Rao emerges as a luminary whose indelible contributions have left an indelible mark on the nation’s media landscape. As he continues to chart new frontiers and redefine the contours of success, his legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and visionaries worldwide.