Hyderabad, July 13:
Renowned Telugu actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, a stalwart of Indian cinema who acted in over 750 films across multiple languages, passed away on Sunday morning at his residence in Film Nagar, Hyderabad. He was 83 and had been battling age-related health complications for the past few years.
A towering figure in the Telugu film industry, Kota was celebrated for his versatility, commanding screen presence, and impeccable dialogue delivery. His cinematic journey began in 1978 with the film Pranam Khareedu, and over the span of four and a half decades, he carved a unique niche for himself, portraying a wide range of characters—from comedic and villainous roles to deeply emotional performances.
In recognition of his immense contribution to Indian cinema, Kota Srinivasa Rao was honoured with the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2015. His illustrious career was further decorated with nine Nandi Awards, the SIIMA Award, and the esteemed Allu Ramalingaiah Puraskaram, reflecting the profound impact he left on the industry.
Kota’s demise marks the end of an era in Telugu cinema. He will be remembered not just for his prolific body of work but also for the depth and authenticity he brought to every role. Condolences have poured in from across the country, with fans, colleagues, and political leaders mourning the loss of a true cinematic legend.
