Veteran Telugu actor and producer G.V. Narayana Rao has passed away at the age of 73, leaving the Telugu film industry mourning the loss of another respected artiste from an important generation of cinema.
Narayana Rao breathed his last in Hyderabad on Wednesday evening after battling health issues, with reports also stating that he suffered a heart attack. His death was confirmed by actress Karate Kalyani, while the Movie Artists Association (MAA) and several film personalities expressed their condolences.
Narayana Rao had a career spanning nearly five decades and worked across films and television, appearing in around 100 movies. He made his acting debut with K. Balachander’s Anthuleni Katha in 1976 and received the Nandi Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance.
Five-Decade Journey of a Celebrated Telugu Actor
He subsequently established himself as a leading actor with films such as Muthyala Pallaki, Oka Oori Katha, Chilakamma Cheppindi and Oorukichchina Maata, before gradually moving into supporting and character roles.
G.V. Narayana Rao remained a familiar face to Telugu audiences across multiple generations. Apart from his acclaimed early work, his filmography included popular titles such as Manchu Pallaki, Gang Leader and Hitler.
He shared a particularly close association with Chiranjeevi, working with the Megastar in several films. Narayana Rao also reportedly had a friendship with Rajinikanth, with the two said to be batchmates at the Madras Film Institute before entering the film industry.
Contribution Beyond Acting
His contribution was not limited to acting either. He ventured into film production and backed projects including Chiranjeevi-starrers Devanthakudu and Yamudiki Mogudu.
He later continued his association with the entertainment industry through television, appearing in popular serials such as Pasupu Kumkuma and Sundarakanda.
Chiranjeevi Mourns His Dear Friend
Following Narayana Rao’s demise, Chiranjeevi paid an emotional tribute to his longtime friend and colleague. Remembering their decades-long association, Chiranjeevi expressed profound shock at the news and recalled the many memories they shared through their personal and professional journeys.
He particularly remembered Narayana Rao’s contribution as an actor and producer, including their collaborations on films such as Devanthakudu and Yamudiki Mogudu. Chiranjeevi said Narayana Rao had earned a special place in the hearts of audiences through his distinctive performances in films and television.
The veteran actor’s passing marks the end of a remarkable journey that stretched from the golden period of 1970s Telugu cinema to later generations of film and television. His work as an actor, producer and television artiste leaves behind a lasting legacy in Telugu entertainment.