"He enthralled audiences across generations."
On July 13, 2025, Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away at the age of 83. The actor was known for his work in Telugu theatre and cinema.
Rao died at his home in Hyderabad after a prolonged illness, just three days after his last birthday.
The actor made his film debut in Pranam Khareedu. That debut kicked off a career which spanned over four decades.
In his career, Rao acted in over 750 films in a variety of languages, including Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi.
He was admired for his voice modulation and powerful performances in villainous and comedic roles.
His other acclaimed films include Siva (1989), Govindha Govindha (1993), Idiot (2002), and Pellaina Kothalo (2006).
Rao also became a member of the Legislative Assembly in Andhra Pradesh. He was in office from 1999 to 2004.
Following the news of his death, many took to social media to pay tribute to Rao.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote: “Anguished by the passing of Shri Kota Srinivas 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.”
Anguished by the passing of Shri Kota Srinivas 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…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2025
Ram Charan said: “Cinema will miss a versatile actor like Kota Srinivasa Rao Garu.
“The memorable characters he has etched in our memories will be remembered forever.
“May his soul rest in peace and may his family find strength and solace during this difficult time.”
Rohith Nara expressed his sadness and said: “It’s deeply saddening to hear that Kota Srinivasa Rao Garu is no more.
“A true legend of Telugu cinema, he was the epitome of versatility, effortlessly breathing life into every role he played.”
“Whether it was Minister Kasayya, Lakshmipathi, Guru Narayana, Sambasivudu, Thadi Mattayya, or Alladdin, each character carved a lasting place in our hearts.
“With his passing, an era has ended.”
It’s deeply saddening to hear that Kota Srinivasa Rao garu is no more. A true legend of Telugu cinema, he was the epitome of versatility,effortlessly breathing life into every role he played. Whether it was Minister Kasayya, Lakshmipathi, Guru Narayana, Sambasivudu, Thadi… pic.twitter.com/2ycdWE1gw8
— Rohith Nara (@IamRohithNara) July 13, 2025
In 2015, Rao was awarded with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour.
He will posthumously star in Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part One – Sword vs Spirit. This will be his final film appearance.
The film is scheduled to be released on July 24, 2025.
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