Tollywood veteran Kota Srinivasa Rao, Padma Shri awardee and ex-MLA, passes away at 83. He acted in over 750 films, leaving a lasting legacy.
Hyderabad, July 13, 2025 – The Telugu film fraternity and millions of fans are mourning the loss of iconic actor and former BJP MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao, who passed away early Sunday morning at his residence in Hyderabad. He was 83. Family sources confirmed he had been battling age-related health issues in recent weeks.
Rao’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. Celebrated for his versatility and commanding presence, he carved a legendary career over four decades, appearing in over 750 films across Telugu and other languages.
Kota Srinivasa Rao: From Aspiring Doctor to Acting Legend
Born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu, Krishna district (Andhra Pradesh), Rao initially aspired to become a doctor. However, college theatre ignited his passion for acting. Before entering films, he worked as a State Bank employee while honing his skills as a theatre artist, quickly earning a reputation for his expressive voice and powerful performances.
His cinematic journey began with his debut in the 1978 Telugu film Pranam Khareedhu, launching a prolific film career. Rao redefined negative roles and supporting characters with unmatched depth, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
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Kota Srinivasa Rao: A Versatile Career Across Genres
Rao’s notable performances include Pratighatana (1985), Gaayam (1993), Teerpu (1994), Aa Naluguru (2004), Bommarillu (2006), and Julayi (2012). Whether portraying villains, comic roles, or emotionally complex characters, he captivated audiences and critics alike.
He shared the screen with Tollywood stalwarts like Krishna, Chiranjeevi, Balakrishna, Nagarjuna, Venkatesh, Mahesh Babu, Pawan Kalyan, and Allu Arjun. His final film appearance was in Suvarna Sundari (2023).
Political Career and Public Service
Beyond cinema, Rao served as a BJP MLA from Vijayawada East (1999–2004). His understanding of politics also translated on-screen in memorable political roles in films like Julayi and Naayak (2013). Known for his sharp wit and principled views, he was respected across party lines.
In recognition of his contributions to Indian cinema, Rao was awarded the Padma Shri in 2015, one of the nation’s highest civilian honors. He also received nine Nandi Awards and a SIIMA Award, affirming his legacy as one of Telugu cinema’s finest.
Tributes Pour In
Condolences and tributes poured in from across the country.
Megastar Chiranjeevi wrote on X, calling him a “multifaceted genius” whose death is a great loss to Indian cinema.
లెజెండరీ యాక్టర్ , బహుముఖ ప్రజ్ఞా శాలి
— Chiranjeevi Konidela (@KChiruTweets) July 13, 2025
శ్రీ కోట శ్రీనివాస రావు గారు ఇక లేరు అనే వార్త ఎంతో కలచివేసింది.
'ప్రాణం ఖరీదు' చిత్రం తో ఆయన నేను ఒకే సారి సినిమా కెరీర్ ప్రారంభించాము. ఆ తరువాత వందల కొద్దీ సినిమాల్లో ఎన్నెన్నో విభిన్నమైన పాత్రల్లో నటించి, ప్రతి పాత్రని తన…
Actor-producer Vishnu Manchu described him as “a legend beyond words.”
Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, Telangana CM A. Revanth Reddy, and actors like Ravi Teja, Balakrishna, and Brahmanandam also expressed heartfelt condolences.
Outside his residence, fans and supporters gathered to pay their respects. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of mourning and celebration of his iconic roles.
A Legacy That Lives On
Kota Srinivasa Rao is survived by his family, who have faced personal tragedies in recent years. His passing leaves a profound void, not just in the Telugu film industry, but in the cultural and political landscape of Andhra Pradesh.
His vast body of work, dedication to craft, and service to society will continue to inspire generations of actors and cinephiles.
Rest in peace, Kota Srinivasa Rao garu. Om Shanti.