Veteran Telugu actor Raavi Kondala Rao passes away at 88

Veteran cine, stage actor and journalist Raavi Kondala Rao has breathed his last on Tuesday in a private hospital at Begumpet in Hyderabad. The 88-year-old thespian who has been reportedly undergoing treatment from the past few days has passed away due to cardiac arrest. Besides stamping his authority as a convincing actor both in films and theatre, Kondala Rao has proved his mettle as a writer, director, mimicry artist and other facets of arts.He is also known for his contribution to Telugu literature.
Born at Srikakulam in 1932, Raavi Kondala Rao has been inclined towards acting from childhood itself. Besides pursuing his studies, he used to write stories and play minor roles in theatre. After wrapping up his education, Kondala Rao began his professional career as a Sub Editor in Anandavani Telugu magazine and gradually penned several stories in leading newspapers. During this tenure, he worked with legendary personalities like Sri Sri and Arudra.
Raavi Kondala Rao made his acting debut with the 1964 film Dagudu Moothalu and went on to play supporting roles in memorable films like Ramudu Bheemudu, Thene Manasulu, Dasara Bullodu, Chantabbai, Pelli Pustakam and Bhairava Dweepam. For the Balakrishna starrer, he wrote the story and dialogues as well. In an illustrious career spanning for over six decades, the versatile actor featured in close to 600 films and essayed a wide variety of roles. His last film is Ram Gopal Varma’s ‘365 Days’.

Raavi Kondala Rao has shared screenspace with his wife Radha Kumari in over 150 films. She passed away in 2012. Several Tollywood celebrities have offered their condolences to the death of Kondala Rao.