Hyderabad: Renowned Telugu actor Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away in the early hours of Sunday at 4 AM. He had been suffering from health-related complications for some time. His demise has left the Telugu film fraternity and fans in deep sorrow, with several industry personalities expressing their condolences.
Born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu, Krishna district, Kota Srinvasa Rao began his career as a theatre artist while working at the State Bank. He made his film debut in 1978 with Pranam Khareedu, which also marked the debut of actor Chiranjeevi. Known for his versatility, Rao carved a niche for himself across multiple genres, portraying antagonists, comedians, and character roles with equal ease.
ప్రముఖ నటుడు కోట శ్రీనివాసరావు
కన్నుమూత,
తెల్ల వారు జామున తుది విడిచారు,
గొప్ప నటుడు 🙏
ఓం శాంతి!!!#kotasrinivasrao pic.twitter.com/TSXXk0KGUQ— Hemu 🚩 (@hemanth2peddir1) July 13, 2025
His performance in Pratighatana (1985) earned critical acclaim and marked a turning point in his career. Films like Ahankari, Ganesh, Sathruvu, Shiva, and Vandemataram established him as a formidable screen villain. On the other hand, comedies such as Aha Naa Pellanta and Jambalakidi Pamba, directed by Jandhyala, highlighted his impeccable comic timing.
Kota Srinivasa Rao acted in over 750 films across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Hindi, and Malayalam languages. He was celebrated for his ability to deliver dialogues in various Telugu dialects, enhancing the authenticity of his performances. His notable films include Attarintiki Daredi, Dookudu, Sarkar, Bommarillu, Athadu, Tagore, Idiot, and Student No.1.
In recognition of his contributions to Indian cinema, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2015. He also received nine Nandi Awards in various acting categories and won the SIIMA Award in 2012 for Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum.
Kota’s demise marks the end of an era in Telugu cinema. His legacy as a versatile and powerful performer will continue to inspire generations of actors.