'Master of his craft, a legend': NTR Jr, Pawan Kalyan, Rajamouli pay tributes to Kota Srinivasa Rao

 

The demise of one of Telugu cinema's most versatile actors has left a huge void in not only his native industry but Indian cinema as a whole. An actor gifted with expressive eyes that could adapt to any genre and a range that runs the gamut from serious to comedy, Kota Srinivasa Rao was a massive presence who left an indelible impression across industries, including Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi cinema. 

Ram Gopal Varma, who worked with the legend in five films, called him "one of the greatest actors cinema has ever seen", lauding his "immeasurable" contribution to the filmmaker's Shiva, Gaayam, Money, Sarkar and Raktacharitra. "You might have gone but your characters will live forever," he said.

Pawan Kalyan, whose Hari Hara Veera Mallu was the last film the thespian worked in, said he was deeply saddened by Rao's demise: "The news that the versatile actor Kota garu, who acted in more than 700 films in various roles in almost all Indian languages, is no more is a huge loss for the film industry. Especially since he started his film journey with my elder brother Chiranjeevi garu with the film Pranam Khareedhu. Acting in more than half a dozen films with him will remain a lasting memory. I pray that his soul rests in peace and express my deepest condolences to his family members and fans." 

To actor Ravi Teja, Rao, whom he addresses as "Kota Babai", was like family. He recalled that he "grew up watching him, admiring him, and learning from every performance. I cherish the lovely memories of working with him."

Filmmaker SS Rajamouli describes Rao as a "master of his craft, a legend who breathed life into every character he portrayed. His presence on screen was truly irreplaceable." 

NTR Jr called Kota Srinivasa Rao "a great actor" with "unparalleled acting prowess who breathed life into every role with his unique style. The moments I shared and acted with him in my cinematic journey will remain unforgettable forever. I pray for peace to his soul. I express my deepest condolences to his family members and loved ones."

 

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