In heartbreaking news for the Indian film industry and countless fans worldwide, the veteran Telugu actor and former BJP MLA, Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away at the age of 83 on Sunday, July 13, 2025. He was a Padma Shri awardee and an iconic figure in Indian cinema; Rao’s death has left the nation mourning.
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s early life and career beginnings
Kota Srinivasa was born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu, Andhra Pradesh. Initially, he wanted a career in medicine, inspired by his father, Dr. Seetha Rama Anjaneyulu. However, his passion for acting took over him during his college years. He made his film debut in 1978 with Pranam Khareedu, a film that also featured Chiranjeevi’s entry into the cinema. His career spanned over more than four decades, and he has been credited appearences in over 750 films across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi language.
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s wife and family
Kota Srinivasa Rao kept his family life mostly private. He was married to Rukmini Rao, but not much is known about her as she stayed away from media attention. Kota Srinivasa and his wife, Rukmini have two daughters, Pallavi Srinivasa Rao and Pavani Srinivasa Rao. They also had a son, Kota Venkata Anjaneya Prasad, who tragically died in a road accident on June 20, 2010, in Hyderabad. Prasad had acted alongside his father in films like Gaayam 2 and Siddham.
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s death shocked the nation
Kota Srinivasa Rao took his last breath at his residence in Filmnagar, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, early Sunday morning, July 13, 2025. He had been sick for quite some time and was currently under medical supervision. He lost his life just three days after he had celebrated his 83rd birthday. The news of his demise has left the Indian film industry and political circles in deep mourning and shock.
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s cause of death was age-related health issues
The prolific actor, Kota Srinivasa, had been battling health issues for several years now. According to The Indian Express, his health worsened due to age-related complications, and despite treatment and care at home, he passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Film and political fraternity mourns Kota Srinivasa Rao’s death
Kota Srinivasa’s final rites saw the presence of many notable figures. Megastar, Chiranjeevi, his longtime colleague, paid him a tribute by placing a wreath of red roses on him and was seen comforting the grieving family. Actor, Prakash Raj, Jr NTR, producer, D Suresh Babu, and veteran actor, Murali Mohan were also among those who visited his house to pay homage.
Top political leaders, including Telangana Chief Minister, A Revanth Reddy, Andhra Pradesh CM, N Chandrababu Naidu, Union Minister, G Kishan Reddy, and Deputy CM, Pawan Kalyan, were also present to offer condolences. Former Vice President, M Venkaiah Naidu and Telangana BJP president, N Ramchander Rao were also seen at Kota Srinivasa’s residence.
Kota Srinivasa Rao has left behind a legacy that lives on
Kota Srinivasa Rao was a celebrated actor, and a respected politician, he had served as a BJP MLA from Vijayawada East from 1999 to 2004. He was honoured with the Padma Shri for his contributions to Indian cinema and he will forever be remembered for his contributions to society, whether it was in art or social welfare.
May Kota Srinivasa Rao rest in peace, and our deepest condolences go out to his family, who are struggling through this tough time.
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