known for his powerful screen presence, versatile acting, and decades-long contribution to Indian cinema, passed away at the age of 83. He breathed his last at his residence in Filmnagar, Hyderabad, in the early hours of Sunday, July 14, 2025, after suffering from age-related health issues, his family confirmed.

His demise marks the end of an era in Telugu cinema, leaving behind a rich legacy of over four decades in films, theater, and public life.

 A Multi-Talented Performer: From Stage to Screen

Born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu, Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, Kota Srinivasa Rao hailed from a culturally rooted family. His father, Kota Seetharama Anasuyamma, supported his artistic inclinations from a young age, allowing him to participate in school dramas and local stage performances. This early exposure laid the foundation for his illustrious journey in the performing arts.

Before stepping into cinema, Rao worked at the State Bank of India (SBI). However, his passion for acting remained undiminished. He was active in amateur theater even during his banking career, eventually deciding to follow his true calling.

 Entry into Films and Rise to Stardom

Kota Srinivasa Rao made his cinematic debut in 1978 with the Telugu film ‘Pranam Khareedu’. Over time, he became one of the most respected and in-demand supporting actors and villains in Telugu cinema. His performances were often lauded for their emotional intensity, subtle expressions, and impeccable dialogue delivery.

Over his long career, he acted in more than 750 films, including:

• 30 Tamil films

• 10 Hindi films

• 8 Kannada films

• 1 Malayalam film

His final appearance was in the Telugu movie ‘Suvarna Sundari’ (2023).

Whether as a cunning villain, a strict father, or a comic relief, Rao brought a rare authenticity to each character. He also lent his voice as a playback singer in a few Telugu songs, further showcasing his creative range.

 Awards and Honours

Kota Srinivasa Rao’s talent did not go unrecognized. He received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to Indian cinema:

• 9 Nandi Awards by the Government of Andhra Pradesh for Best Actor, Supporting Actor, and Villain roles.

• Padma Shri — India’s fourth-highest civilian award — conferred in 2015 by then-President Pranab Mukherjee for his outstanding contribution to the arts.

 A Brief Political Career

Kota also made a mark in public service. He entered politics in the late 1990s and was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Vijayawada East constituency on a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket. He served in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly from 1999 to 2004.

During his political tenure, Rao was active in community development, education, and social welfare initiatives, earning him the respect of both colleagues and constituents.

 Personal Life and Tragedy

Kota Srinivasa Rao is survived by his wife Rukmini and two daughters. He had a son, Kota Prasad Rao, who tragically passed away in a road accident in Hyderabad in 2010. The loss deeply affected the actor, but he continued to work and stay connected to his craft and fans.

National and State Leaders Pay Tribute

Following the news of his demise, tributes poured in from across the country. Prominent political figures, Tollywood celebrities, and fans expressed grief and admiration for the late actor.

🇮🇳 Prime Minister Narendra Modi:

“Anguished by the passing of Shri Kota Srinivasa Rao Garu. He will be remembered for his cinematic brilliance and versatility. He enthralled audiences across generations with his riveting performances. He was also at the forefront of social service and worked towards empowering the poor and downtrodden. Condolences to his family and countless admirers.” – (Posted on X)

Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu:

“My tributes to Padma Shri awardee Rao, who mesmerised generations of audiences with his acting brilliance. I offer my deepest sympathies to his family.”

Andhra Pradesh Governor Abdul Nazeer:

In a press release from Raj Bhavan, he wrote:

“The demise of renowned actor Rao, who won the hearts of film audiences with his diverse roles, is deeply saddening. His contributions will remain etched in Telugu cinema history. His death is an irreparable loss.”

YSRCP Chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy:

“Kota Srinivasa Rao’s versatile performances left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.”

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan also extended condolences and highlighted his influence on South Indian cinema.

 His Legacy in Indian Cinema

Few actors in India have demonstrated the range, consistency, and emotional depth that Kota Srinivasa Rao did. His filmography spans multiple generations and includes:

• Cult classics like Aha Naa Pellanta

• Intense roles in Gaayam, Muthyamantha Muddu

• Light-hearted performances in Hello Brother, Chintakayala Ravi

• Villainous masterpieces in Pratighatana and Tagore

He could seamlessly transform from a menacing antagonist to a comic character to a benevolent elder, making him a favorite among directors and audiences alike.

The passing of Kota Srinivasa Rao is not just a loss for the Telugu film industry but for Indian cinema as a whole. His unparalleled contribution to film, theater, and public life ensures that he will be remembered as a cultural icon and legendary performer. As tributes continue to pour in, it’s clear that Kota’s work has not only entertained but also inspired generations — a true testament to a life well-lived.