Cherukuri Ramoji Rao, the creator of Ramoji Film City and the chairman of the Telugu news and entertainment network ETV, passed away on Saturday morning in Hyderabad at the age of 87.

According to ETV Telangana, one of the Ramoji Group stations, Rao passed away at 4.50 am after receiving treatment for a few days.

The Padma Vibhushan recipient is known for founding the Ramoji Group, which is the owner of the renowned integrated production hub Ramoji Film City in the capital city of Telangana. They’ve moved his mortal remains to his apartment in Film City.

He was born on November 16, 1936. In 1974, Rao started the well-known Telugu daily newspaper Eenadu. As a producer, he is also recognized for having supported fifty films and telefilms.

President Droupadi Murmu sent her condolences and referred to him as a “titan of the media and entertainment sector” after learning of his passing. She said as much in a post on X: “A creative businessman, he founded several businesses, including as the Eenadu daily, the ETV news network, and Ramoji Film City. Having been awarded the Padma Vibhushan, he was successful because society was fundamental to his vision. His contributions to this field will always be valued. I send my sympathies to his loved ones and supporters.

The prime minister Narendra Modi, expressed his sympathies for Rao’s loss and recognized his services to the media industry. Modi is scheduled to take the oath of office for the third time on Sunday. It is deeply saddening to learn of Shri Ramoji Rao Garu’s demise. He was a visionary who transformed Indian journalism. His significant contributions to journalism and the film industry have had a lasting impact. He raised the bar for creativity and quality in the media and entertainment industries with his remarkable efforts. Ramoji Rao Garu has a strong commitment to the advancement of India.