Telugu actor Kota Srinivasa Rao dies at 83 in Hyderabad

NEW DELHI: Veteran Telugu actor and ex-BJP MLA from Vijayawada, Kota Srinivasa Rao has died at the age of 83 in Hyderabad.He passed away at his home in Film Nagar on Sunday morning following prolonged health complications, his family confirmed.Regarded as one of the finest character actors in Indian cinema, Rao featured in more than 750 films across Telugu and other languages during a prolific career spanning over four decades. He made his acting debut in 1978 with the film 'Pranam Khareedu' and went on to carve a niche for himself with his powerful screen presence. Rao was honoured with the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, in 2015 for his contribution to the arts. He also won nine Nandi Awards – the highest award for excellence in Telugu cinema – and was the recipient of the Allu Ramalingaiah Puraskaram and SIIMA honours.'Actor will forever be etched in the hearts'Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu paid tribute to the late actor.In a post on 'X', Naidu wrote, "The demise of the renowned actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, who won the hearts of cinema audiences with his versatile roles, is deeply saddening. His artistic contributions to cinema and theater over nearly four decades and the roles he portrayed, will remain unforgettable.""The countless memorable roles he played as a villain and character actor will forever be etched in the hearts of Telugu audiences. His passing is an irreparable loss to the Telugu film industry. In 1999, he won as an MLA from Vijayawada and served the people. I express my deepest condolences to his family members," he added further.'A good leader'Andhra Minister Nara Lokesh also expressed his condolences."In his four-decade cinematic journey, Kota Srinivasa Rao garu portrayed numerous distinctive roles, earning a special place in the hearts of Telugu audiences. With his unique acting, he breathed life into countless characters. He also earned acclaim for acting in other languages."In 1999, he won as an MLA from the Vijayawada East constituency and gained recognition as a "good leader" through public service, he noted."His passing is an irreparable loss to the Telugu film industry. I pray to God that his sacred soul may find peace. I extend my deepest sympathies to the family members of Kota Srinivasa Rao garu"He was born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu village, a suburb of Vijayawada city in Andhra Pradesh.