Veteran Actor Kota Srinivasa Rao Dies at 83; Vishnu Manchu, Chiranjeevi, and Chandrababu Naidu Mourn the Loss
By Sugandha Rawal
Published: July 13, 2025 | 8:19 AM IST
Veteran Telugu actor and Padma Shri awardee Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away on Sunday in Hyderabad at the age of 83. The celebrated actor, known for his unmatched versatility in playing both villainous and character roles, reportedly succumbed to age-related health issues after a brief period of illness.
His death has led to an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the film industry and political circles.
Vishnu Manchu Remembers Kota Srinivasa Rao
Actor Vishnu Manchu paid a heartfelt tribute on social media, sharing a picture of the late actor and writing:
“A Legend Beyond Words. My heart is heavy with the loss of Sri Kota Srinivas garu. A phenomenal actor, an unmatched talent, and a man whose presence lit up every frame he was in. Whether it was a serious role, a villain, or comedy—he brought life into every character with a rare mastery that only a few are blessed with.”
Vishnu recalled working with Kota Srinivasa Rao in several films and credited him with shaping his own admiration for cinema.
“We may have lost him physically, but his art, his laughter, and his soul will live on in every scene he graced. Rest in peace, sir. You will be missed. You will be remembered. Always.”
Chandrababu Naidu Condoles
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also mourned the loss.
He posted:
“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 cinema and theater over nearly four decades, and the unforgettable roles he portrayed as a villain and character artist, will forever stay etched in the hearts of Telugu audiences. His passing is an irreparable loss to the Telugu film industry. I express my profound condolences to his family members.”
About Kota Srinivasa Rao
Born in Vijayawada, Kota Srinivasa Rao made his acting debut in the 1978 Telugu film Pranam Khareedu. Over a remarkable career spanning nearly five decades, he acted in over 500 films, leaving an indelible mark in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema.
He was honored with the Padma Shri in 2015 for his contributions to Indian cinema and theater.
Notable milestones include his Hindi debut in Ram Gopal Varma’s Sarkar (2005), where he played the memorable role of Silver Mani.
Apart from films, he also served as an MLA from Vijayawada in 1999, adding another dimension to his public life.
Cause of Death
According to unconfirmed reports, Kota Srinivasa Rao had been battling age-related ailments and his condition worsened in recent days before he breathed his last in Hyderabad.
Legacy
Kota Srinivasa Rao was celebrated for his ability to seamlessly portray villains, comic roles, and serious characters, earning him a place among the finest actors of Indian cinema. His performances have inspired generations of actors and entertained millions of fans.
As Vishnu Manchu aptly said, “His art, his laughter, and his soul will live on in every scene he graced.”
