Veteran Actor & Former MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao Passes Away at 83

The Indian film industry mourns the loss of one of its finest character actors, Kota Srinivasa Rao, who passed away at the age of 83. The veteran actor and former MLA breathed his last in Hyderabad on Thursday morning, leaving behind a rich legacy of over four decades in cinema and public service.

Born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu, Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, Kota Srinivasa Rao carved a niche for himself in Indian cinema with his distinct voice, powerful screen presence, and an incredible range that made him one of the most sought-after supporting actors in Telugu films. Over the years, he also made significant contributions to Tamil, Kannada, Hindi, and Malayalam cinema, with a career spanning more than 600 films.

Kota began his professional life as a banker and briefly worked with State Bank of India before pursuing his passion for theatre and cinema. His breakthrough came with the film Pranam Khareedu in 1978, where his performance garnered praise. He soon became a household name, especially in the Telugu film industry, known for his versatility in portraying both villainous and comic roles with equal flair.

Among his most memorable performances are roles in films like Aha Naa Pellanta, Gaayam, Pratighatana, Hello Brother, Leader, and Tagore. His unmatched dialogue delivery, unique expressions, and ability to embody characters from every walk of life made him a director’s favorite and an audience darling. Whether as a ruthless antagonist or a witty politician, Kota brought depth and authenticity to every role he played.

In recognition of his stellar contribution to Indian cinema, Kota Srinivasa Rao was awarded the Padma Shri in 2015, one of India’s highest civilian honors. He also won numerous Nandi Awards and other accolades during his illustrious career.

Apart from his cinematic achievements, Kota also had a brief yet impactful political career. He served as an MLA representing Vijayawada East constituency in the united Andhra Pradesh Assembly from 1999 to 2004. A member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he was known for his straightforward views and cultural advocacy. He continued to speak on issues concerning the film industry and regional identity even after retiring from politics.