Renowned Indian businessman and media mogul Cherukuri Ramoji Rao passed away on Saturday at the age of 87. Ramoji Rao was the visionary behind the Ramoji Group, a conglomerate with a wide range of interests. His empire included the famed Ramoji Film City, recognized as the world's largest film production facility, the popular Eenadu newspaper, and the extensive ETV Network of television channels. His influence extended further with Usha Kiran Movies in film production and ventures such as Margadarsi Chit Fund, Dolphin Group of hotels, Kalanjali shopping mall, Priya pickles, and Mayuri Film Distributors.

Born on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi, Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, Ramoji Rao came from an agricultural background. He began his entrepreneurial journey from modest beginnings and rose to become a towering figure in Indian media and cinema, significantly shaping these industries.

Throughout his distinguished career, Ramoji Rao earned numerous accolades, including four Filmfare Awards South, five Nandi Awards, and the prestigious National Film Award, highlighting his significant contributions to Telugu cinema. In 2016, his extraordinary achievements were recognized with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor, for his extensive contributions to journalism, literature, and education.