Veteran Telugu actor Rallapalli Venkata Narasimha Rao passed away at a private hospital in Hyderabad on Friday while undergoing treatment. According to reports, the 73-year-old, who has acted in over 800 films, was suffering from a lung ailment.
Born in Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh in 1945 and known for his comic roles, Narasimha Rao began his career in 1960 as a stage artist before going on to make his debut in films in 1974, with the movie Stree. One of his more famous roles was that of a transgender person in Mani Ratnam's Bombay.
Other films that Narasimha Rao has acted in, include Mantrigari Viyyankudu, Sitara, Chillara Devullu, Chali Cheemalu, Oorimadi Bratkulu, Toorpu velle railu, Srivariki Premalekha, Khaidi and Alaya Sikharam.
Media reports stated that the actor’s body was shifted from Maxcure Hospitals in Madhapur, where he was undergoing treatment, to the Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS). His last rites will be held at the Mahaprasthanam on Sunday.
Tributes poured in for the late actor as many remembered him fondly. Many took to social media to express their condolences.
"YSRCP President Sri YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has expressed grief over the demise of veteran comedian Rallapalli Venkata Narasimha Rao and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members. The artiste had won laurels in theatre, television and films as an actor, writer and director through his inimitable style," the party said in a statement.
#rallapalli
— Manikanta (@KManiKa10417860) May 17, 2019
One of the best actor in telugu industry.. Rallapalli miss you sir.. pic.twitter.com/kNjSf83wb8
Rallapalli gaaru..one of my favourites.
— Nani (@NameisNani) May 17, 2019
RIP SIR
Sad to know about Rallapalli Gaaru ... had an honour of working with him in DJ .... What a gem of an actor and a great human being .... We miss you GuruGaaru.....
— Harish Shankar .S (@harish2you) May 17, 2019
Senior Actor Rallapalli garu passed Away. May his soul Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/cvHfwM3qyD
— Vamsi Kaka (@vamsikaka) May 17, 2019
RIP Rallapalli garu.U r really a gem of an actor.U entertained us with ur versatile performance.I am lucky to interact with u for few films..mainly Nuvvu-Nenu film.
— Gopi Mohan (@Gopimohan) May 17, 2019
Abhilasha,Anweshana,
Kanchukagada,RenduRelluAaru film characters r my favourites.U r a legendary actor.Respect U pic.twitter.com/SyppY4wJrT
Deeply saddened by the news of senior actor #Rallapalli garu’s demise. My deep condolences to their family members. pic.twitter.com/htqNhftDT1
— SRIKANTH MEKA (@actorsrikanth) May 17, 2019