The passing of legendary media baron and entrepreneur Cherukuri Ramoji Rao on June 8 has left the Telugu community across the globe and in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in mourning. Ramoji Rao, the founder of Ramoji Group, passed away after a brief illness while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Hyderabad.
Ramoji Rao’s entrepreneurial journey began in Visakhapatnam, where he launched the Telugu daily newspaper Eenadu on August 10, 1974. Starting with a modest print order of 4,000 copies, Ramoji Rao would personally distribute the newspaper on his Lambretta scooter, selling about 3,000 copies in the early days. His experience in the advertising industry helped him keep the newspaper afloat and grow it into a successful publication with multiple editions and branches.
Apart from Eenadu, the Ramoji Group also includes Ramoji Film City, considered the largest film studio in the world, Margadarsi Chit Fund, Dolphin Group of Hotels, and other companies. Ramoji Rao’s success story also extends to the hospitality industry, with the flagship Dolphin Hotel in Visakhapatnam being a testament to his vision and leadership.
Ramoji Rao’s contributions to the media and entertainment industry have left a lasting impact on Telugu society, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. The Telugu community has lost a visionary leader, but his achievements and philanthropic work will always be remembered.