Leaders across party lines, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, mourned the passing of veteran Telugu actor and former MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao on Sunday, offering heartfelt tributes to his remarkable legacy in cinema and public service.Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away at the age of 83 in the early hours of Sunday, just two days after celebrating his birthday. He died at his residence in Filmnagar, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, following a prolonged illness.PM Modi extended his condolences to the family of the veteran actor and remembered him for his “riveting” performances and social service throughout his over four-decade-long career.” Anguished by the passing of Shri Kota Srinivas Rao Garu. He will be remembered for his cinematic brilliance and versatility. He enthralled audiences across generations with his riveting performances. He was also at the forefront of social service and worked towards empowering the poor and downtrodden. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti,” he said in a post on X.Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed sorrow over the former MLA’s demise.“Deeply saddened by the demise of illustrious film personality Shri Kota Srinivasa Rao Garu. Admired for his phenomenal acting talent, Shri Kota Srinivasa Rao Garu made his place in people’s hearts and won honors for his devotion to uplifting the poor. He was also conferred the Padma Shri award in 2015. The enduring legacy he left behind will continue to inspire generations of actors. My thoughts are with the bereaved family, friends, and admirers. Om Shanti,” he said on X.Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu also condoled his death, calling it an “irreparable loss” to the Telugu film industry.“The demise of the renowned actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, who won the affection of cinema audiences with his versatile roles, is deeply saddening. His artistic contributions to the fields of cinema and theatre over nearly four decades, and the roles he portrayed, will remain unforgettable. The numerous memorable roles he played as a villain and character artist will forever stay etched in the hearts of Telugu audiences,” he said in a post on X.From Tollywood megastar Chiranjeevi to Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, several prominent figures paid their respects to Kota Srinivasa Rao. Actor Prakash Raj also visited Rao’s residence in Hyderabad to offer condolences and pay tribute to the legendary actor.
