Hyderabad: Veteran actress and producer Krishnaveni passed away at the age of 102 on Sunday, February 16, 2025. She breathed her last at her residence in Film Nagar, Hyderabad, due to age-related health issues. Krishnaveni, a prominent figure in the Telugu film industry, played a key role in introducing legendary actor N. T. Rama Rao (NTR) to cinema through Mana Desam.
Early Life and Career
Born on December 24, 1936, in Pangidi, West Godavari district, Krishnaveni initially pursued theater before entering films. She made her debut as a child artist in the 1936 film Anasuya. As acting opportunities grew, she moved to Chennai in 1939. The same year, she married Mirzapuram Zamindar, who owned Shobhanachala Studio, later renamed Venus Studio.
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Contributions to Telugu Cinema
Apart from acting, Krishnaveni made significant contributions as a producer and playback singer. She was instrumental in introducing several renowned artists to the industry, including S. V. Ranga Rao and playback singer Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao through Mana Desam. She also introduced music director Ramesh Naidu in the 1957 film Dampatyam.
Krishnaveni’s final on-screen appearance was in the 1951 film Perantalu. In recognition of her contributions, she was honored with the prestigious Raghupathi Venkaiah Award in 2004. The Telugu film fraternity and fans have expressed their condolences over her demise. Her last rites will be performed on Sunday evening.