Hyderabad: Tollywood actor Fish Venkat (Venkat Raj), known for his comic roles in over 100 films, passed away on July 18, 2025, at the age of 53 due to kidney and liver-related complications. Following his demise, his wife Suvarna expressed deep anguish over the lack of support from the Telugu film industry during his illness.
In an emotional interview with RTV, Suvarna stated that despite Venkat’s decades-long contribution to Tollywood, the film fraternity failed to offer substantial help. “Only actor Pawan Kalyan extended support with a Rs 2 lakh donation. Other than that, no one from the industry helped us or even called to inquire about his condition,” she said.
Suvarna dismissed media reports claiming that actor Prabhas had donated Rs 50 lakh. “Someone, who claimed to have worked as Prabhas’s assistant, contacted us. We had hoped that once Prabhas himself learned about Venkat’s condition, he would come forward to help. But we haven’t received any assistance so far,” she clarified.
She also revealed that actor Sonu Sood spoke to them over the phone and assured financial help. “He promised ₹1 lakh, but we haven’t received anything yet,” she added.
Suvarna, however, acknowledged the efforts of Venkat’s fans, stating they provided more support than the film industry.