Remembering Kota Srinivasa Rao – A Legend Beyond Generations
Today, I want to talk about the passing of a monumental figure in Indian cinema — the legendary Kota Srinivasa Rao. It's with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to this incredible actor, who passed away at the age of 83 in the early hours of Sunday, July 13th, at his residence in Filmnagar, Hyderabad. A titan of Telugu cinema and a powerhouse performer who left an indelible mark across more than four decades, Kota garu, as many fondly called him, was more than just an actor — he was a storyteller, a performer, a statesman, and above all, a cultural icon.
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Born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu, a town in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, Kota Srinivasa Rao stepped into films in 1978 with Pranam Khareedhu . What followed was nothing short of extraordinary. With over 750 films to his name — spanning Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi cinema — he was known for redefining what it meant to play a "character actor." His ability to seamlessly slip into roles — whether comic, villainous, or deeply emotional — was unmatched. Think of Ahana Pellanta , Yamudiki Mogudu , Shiva , Pratighatana , Khaidi No.786 , Yamaleela , or more recently Race Gurram and Julayi — each performance was marked by brilliance and authenticity.
He had a voice that could fill an entire theater, a presence that commanded attention, and expressions that lingered long after the credits rolled. But it wasn’t just his cinematic journey that stood out. He was also an accomplished politician, having served as an MLA from Vijayawada East between 1999 and 2004, representing the BJP. Ironically, his on-screen portrayals of politicians often became cult characters in their own right — so convincing, so grounded.
Kota Srinivasa Rao was not only honored with the Padma Shri in 2015 but also bagged nine Nandi Awards for his stellar contributions. His influence wasn’t limited to just his generation — he acted alongside legends like Krishna and Chiranjeevi, and also with today’s stars such as Allu Arjun, Mahesh Babu, and Sai Dharam Tej. His final appearance was in the 2023 film Kabzaa , a reminder that even at that age, his craft had not dimmed.
His death is not just a loss to the film industry — it’s the end of an era. Kota garu’s work will continue to inspire aspiring actors, filmmakers, and lovers of cinema for decades to come. As we remember his journey, let's celebrate a man who made every role his own and every film a little more meaningful with his presence.
Rest in peace, Kota Srinivasa Rao sir. You may have left the stage, but your legacy will forever echo in the hearts of millions.
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