Ramoji Rao’s Death Leaves Pedaparupudi Villagers Down in the Dumps

Ramoji Rao’s Death Leaves Pedaparupudi Villagers Down in the Dumps

Keywords: Ramoji Rao, Pedaparupudi, Death, Ramoji Film City

The sudden death of renowned filmmaker and media mogul Ramoji Rao has cast a pall of gloom over the village of Pedaparupudi in Andhra Pradesh, where he had built his sprawling Ramoji Film City.

Rao, who passed away on July 5 at the age of 88, was a beloved figure in the village. He had employed hundreds of locals in his film city and had donated generously to the community’s development.

“We are devastated,” said Pedaparupudi resident A. Satyanarayana. “He was like a father figure to us. He gave us jobs and helped us in so many ways.”

Rao’s death comes as a double blow to the village, which is still reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our economy was already struggling, and now this,” said B. Madhavi, another villager. “We are not sure how we will manage without him.”

Ramoji Film City, spread over 2,000 acres, is one of the largest film production facilities in the world. It has hosted countless Bollywood and Telugu films over the years.

The loss of Rao, who was also the founder of the Eenadu newspaper group, is being felt not only in Pedaparupudi but throughout the Indian film industry.

“He was a pioneer and a visionary,” said actor Chiranjeevi. “His contributions to Indian cinema will never be forgotten.”

As villagers mourn Rao’s passing, they are also grappling with the future of Ramoji Film City. Many are concerned that the facilities might not be able to sustain themselves without its visionary leader.

“We hope that his family will continue his legacy and keep Ramoji Film City running,” said Satyanarayana. “It is a part of our village’s heritage now.”