Ramoji Rao Biography- Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, an Indian businessman, media proprietor, and film producer, profoundly influenced the media and entertainment industry. As the head of the Ramoji Group, he created the world’s largest film production facility, Ramoji Film City, and launched significant ventures like the Eenadu newspaper, ETV Network, and Usha Kiran Movies. Let’s explore the life of this iconic figure.
Background
Ramoji Rao was born on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi, India, a small village in Andhra Pradesh, India. His parents, Venkata Subba Rao and Venkata Subbamma, instilled in him the values of hard work and determination from a young age. Growing up in rural India, Ramoji Rao’s early life was marked by simplicity and a strong desire to make a difference in the world.
Education
Ramoji Rao attended Gudivada Municipal High School for his early education. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree at Gudivada College. After completing his education, he started his career as an artist for an advertising agency in Delhi. His educational background laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the media industry, where he would go on to become a trailblazer.
Age
Ramoji Rao was 87 years old at the time of his death.
Career
Early Career
Ramoji Rao’s career began with small business ventures, but his entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to explore the media industry. In 1974, he founded the Eenadu newspaper, which quickly gained popularity and became one of the leading newspapers in India. This marked the beginning of his illustrious career in media.
Expansion into Television
Building on the success of Eenadu, Ramoji Rao expanded into television with the launch of ETV Network in the 1990s. The network grew to include multiple channels, catering to diverse audiences across India. His vision and innovation transformed the television landscape in the country.
Ramoji Film City
Perhaps one of Ramoji Rao’s most notable achievements is the creation of Ramoji Film City in 1996. Spanning over 2,000 acres, it is recognized as the world’s largest film production facility. The Film City has hosted numerous film productions and has become a popular tourist destination, showcasing Ramoji Rao’s genius in blending business with creativity.
Major Ventures
Eenadu Newspaper
The Eenadu newspaper, launched in 1974, revolutionized the way news was consumed in India. It brought a fresh perspective to journalism and set high standards for quality and integrity in reporting.
ETV Network
ETV Network, under Ramoji Rao’s leadership, became a household name in India. The network’s diverse programming and commitment to quality made it a favorite among viewers, further cementing Ramoji Rao’s legacy in the media industry.
Usha Kiran Movies
Ramoji Rao’s foray into film production through Usha Kiran Movies resulted in the creation of numerous successful films. His passion for storytelling and commitment to excellence were evident in the quality of films produced under this banner.
Family
Ramoji Rao was a family man, married to Rama Devi since 1961. Together, they had two sons, Cherukuri Suman and Kiran Prabhakr. His family was a pillar of support throughout his journey, contributing to his personal and professional success.
Net Worth
Ramoji Rao’s net worth was estimated to be $4.5 billion (Rs 37,583 crore).
Personal Life
Ramoji Rao lived a simple life and maintained a deep sense of responsibility towards society. Despite his immense success, he remained grounded and committed to his roots. He earned recognition for his philanthropic efforts, actively supporting various social causes and contributing to the betterment of society.
Awards and Recognitions
Ramoji Rao received numerous accolades throughout his career, including four Filmfare Awards South and five Nandi Awards for his contributions to Telugu cinema. He also earned the prestigious National Film Award. In 2016, Ramoji Rao was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in recognition of his significant contributions to journalism, literature, and education.
Death
Ramoji Rao passed away at the age of 87 while undergoing treatment in Hyderabad. He was rushed to Star Hospital on June 5 after experiencing high blood pressure and breathlessness, but sadly, he passed away in the early hours of June 8, 2024.
FAQs
1. What were Ramoji Rao’s major achievements? Ramoji Rao’s major achievements include founding the Eenadu newspaper, establishing ETV Network, and creating Ramoji Film City, the world’s largest film production facility.
2. How did Ramoji Rao contribute to the media industry? Ramoji Rao revolutionized the media industry in India with his innovative approach, launching successful ventures like Eenadu newspaper and ETV Network, which set new standards for journalism and broadcasting.
3. What is Ramoji Film City? Ramoji Film City, established by Ramoji Rao in 1996, is the world’s largest film production facility. It spans over 2,000 acres and serves as a popular tourist destination and a hub for film production.
4. What awards did Ramoji Rao receive? Ramoji Rao received numerous awards, including the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors, for his exceptional contributions to media and journalism.
5. How did Ramoji Rao support philanthropy? Ramoji Rao demonstrated deep commitment to philanthropy by actively supporting various educational and healthcare initiatives. He contributed to social causes that aimed to improve the lives of underprivileged communities.
Conclusion
Ramoji Rao biography was a remarkable journey of innovation, entrepreneurship, and service to society. His contributions to the media and entertainment industry have left an enduring legacy. As we remember him, his vision, dedication, and the positive impact he made on the world inspire us.
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