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Tollywood has lost yet another irreplaceable gem. Veteran actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, whose powerful performances and expressive acting captivated Telugu audiences for decades, has passed away at the age of 83.

Kota’s demise leaves a profound void in both Tollywood and Kollywood. With hundreds of films and countless iconic roles to his credit, he was a remarkably versatile actor who seamlessly portrayed comedy, villainy, and character roles with equal finesse.

A staunch advocate for Telugu cinema, Kota often criticized the dominance of non-Telugu actors in local films, viewing it as a challenge to elevate his craft. This drive resulted in some of the most unforgettable performances in Telugu film history.

In recent years, age-related health issues had confined him to his home. Just days ago, producer Bandla Ganesh visited Kota and shared photos of him smiling warmly despite his frail health. Sadly, Kota breathed his last this morning at his residence in Filmnagar, Hyderabad.

Over the past six years, rumors about his death frequently surfaced, which Kota himself strongly refuted. In one memorable press interaction, he remarked,

“I’m human too. I get fever, colds… but spreading baseless stories without reason isn’t right. I’m a stubborn man; I don’t care about such news.”

True to this resilient spirit, Kota battled his health challenges until the very end.

Born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu, Krishna district, Kota was a true blessing to the Telugu film industry. He made his debut with Pranam Khareedu in 1978 and went on to appear in over 750 films across multiple languages over nearly five decades. He also briefly ventured into politics, further showcasing his multifaceted personality.

Today, Telugu cinema bids farewell to one of its greatest icons—a legendary actor whose timeless performances have etched an indelible mark on the industry. His remarkable legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.