Indian Cinema Mourns Loss of Visionary Filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao
Indian Cinema Mourns Loss of Visionary Filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao
Legendary director Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, known for his innovative films like 'Aditya 369' and 'Pushpaka Vimanam', passes away at 94. Leaders and actors pay tribute to his unparalleled legacy in Indian cinema.
The Indian film fraternity is mourning the passing of veteran filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, who died on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the age of 94. A true pioneer and multifaceted talent, Rao was celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions as a director, screenwriter, producer, music director, and actor, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history.
Condolences have poured in from across the political spectrum and the film industry. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N.
Chandrababu Naidu hailed Rao as a guiding light for the film industry, whose experimental work captivated audiences.
Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan praised Rao for enriching Indian cinema with his diverse filmography and creative experiments, noting his sustained passion for cinema even in his nineties.
Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh described Rao's death as an irreparable loss, highlighting his collaboration with legendary actor N.T. Rama Rao and the creation of memorable films like 'Aditya 369' and 'Bhairava Dweepam', which he regarded as gems in his uncle Nandamuri Balakrishna's career.
Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh lauded Rao for his unconventional themes, recalling how 'Pushpaka Vimanam', a silent comedy during the talkie era, became a sensation, and 'Aditya 369' introduced time travel to Telugu cinema.
Durgesh also underscored Rao's technical ingenuity, citing his use of lens techniques to create the dwarf character in 'Vichitra Sodarulu' long before modern computer graphics. YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy echoed sentiments of loss, emphasizing Rao's experimental films, innovative storytelling, and adoption of new technology that elevated Indian cinema's stature.
Reddy described him as a true pathbreaker who continued filmmaking even at 94.
Actor Nandamuri Balakrishna expressed profound sorrow, calling Rao's death a "great loss for Indian cinema." He reminisced about their collaborations on 'Aditya 369', 'Bhairava Dweepam', and 'Sri Krishnarjuna Vijayam', and the special bond Rao shared with the Nandamuri family, having worked closely with N.T. Rama Rao earlier in his career.
Singeetham Srinivasa Rao's legacy of innovation and versatility will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of filmmakers.", "city": "Udayagiri
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