Kota Srinivasa Rao, the celebrated Telugu actor known for his distinctive performances, passed away early this morning at his residence in Film Nagar, Hyderabad, following an illness. He was 83.
Born on 10 July 1942 in Kankipadu, Krishna district, Kota Srinivasa Rao acted in over 750 films during a career that spanned more than four decades, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of Telugu audiences. Before entering films, he worked at the State Bank of India and was also an acclaimed stage actor. He was married to Rukmini in 1968 and is survived by two daughters. His son, Kota Prasad, passed away in a road accident on 21 June 2010.
Kota Srinivasa Rao made his film debut with Pranam Khareedu and initially appeared in supporting and villainous roles. Over the years, he shared the screen with leading stars of different generations, including Superstar Krishna, Chiranjeevi, Nagarjuna, Balakrishna, Venkatesh, Mahesh Babu, Pawan Kalyan, and Sai Dharam Tej. His breakthrough came with Pratighatana, and he further gained acclaim for his unforgettable miserly character in Aha Naa Pellanta. Other notable films include Khaidi No. 786, Yamudiki Mogudu, Bobbili Raja, Yamaleela, Shiva, Santosham, Bommarillu, Athadu, Race Gurram, and Intlo Illalu Vantintlo Priyuralu.
Several prominent figures from the film and political arenas expressed their condolences over his demise and remembered his contributions to cinema and theatre. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed grief, stating, “Kota Srinivasa Rao entertained audiences with his unique acting style. His death is an irreparable loss to the film industry.”
Noted actor Tanikella Bharani recalled his association with Kota Srinivasa Rao and remarked, “With his passing, the ‘Kota’ of the film industry has crumbled. His journey from a middle-class family to cinematic heights is truly inspiring. His passion for theatre paved his way into films.” Bharani prayed for peace to his soul and strength to his family.
Senior actor Brahmanandam said, “I cannot believe that Kota Srinivasa Rao is no longer with us. As long as acting exists, he will remain. He spoke his mind fearlessly. We worked together for four decades.” Actor Ravi Teja also shared his sorrow, stating, “I grew up watching, admiring, and learning from him. The moments I worked with him remain sweet memories.”
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, Education Minister Nara Lokesh, former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party chief Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan also expressed their condolences on social media platform X.
Chandrababu Naidu described Kota Srinivasa Rao’s death as a grievous loss to the Telugu film industry and praised his four-decade-long contributions to cinema and theatre. He recalled that Kota also served as MLA from Vijayawada in 1999 and conveyed his deep condolences to the family.
Nara Lokesh noted, “In his four-decade journey, Kota Srinivasa Rao carved a unique place in the hearts of Telugu audiences. His distinctive performances brought life to many roles, and he also impressed in other languages. His public service as MLA earned him a reputation as a good leader.”
Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy stated that Kota Srinivasa Rao’s passing was a significant loss to Telugu cinema and remembered his Padma Shri and many other accolades. He prayed for peace to his soul.
Pawan Kalyan shared his grief, saying the news of Kota Srinivasa Rao’s death was deeply shocking. He described him as a multi-faceted genius who acted in more than 700 films across many Indian languages. Pawan Kalyan recalled that both he and Chiranjeevi began their film journeys with Pranam Khareedu, and that acting alongside Kota Srinivasa Rao in over half a dozen films remains a cherished memory. He prayed for peace to his soul and extended heartfelt condolences to his family and fans.
Condolences continued to pour in from many other film and political personalities, acknowledging his unforgettable roles and immense contributions to Indian cinema and theatre.
