Renowned Telugu actor Yerra Seshagiri Rao, popularly known as Giri Babu, passed away on Saturday at a private hospital in Hyderabad. He had been receiving treatment for health complications associated with his age. While The Times of India reported the actor was 80 years old, Hindustan Times stated he was 83.
Born in Ravinuthala village in the Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh, Giri Babu made his acting debut in the 1973 film Jagame Maya. Over a career spanning five decades, he appeared in more than 600 films. His professional journey included roles as an actor, producer, and director, with a repertoire that transitioned from negative characters to diverse hero and character roles.
Members of the film industry and political figures have expressed their condolences. Megastar Chiranjeevi described the news as shocking, praising Giri Babu’s unique style and his multifaceted contributions to Telugu cinema. Actor Mohan Babu, who was a roommate of the late actor during their early days in Madras, shared his grief, calling him a close friend and a large-hearted individual. Nandamuri Balakrishna, who acted alongside Giri Babu early in his career in films like Annadammula Anubandham, noted that his loss was irreparable. Additionally, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and filmmaker Anil Ravipudi offered tributes to the late actor’s versatility and sense of humour.
Key facts
- Giri Babu passed away on Saturday at a private hospital in Hyderabad.
- He began his cinematic career with the 1973 film Jagame Maya.
- The actor appeared in over 600 films during his career.
- The Movie Artistes Association announced that public tributes would be held at the Film Chamber from 7 pm to 9 pm on Saturday.
- Final rites are scheduled for Sunday between 3 pm and 4 pm at Ravinuthala, near Medarametla.
Why it matters
The passing of Giri Babu is considered a significant loss for the Telugu film industry due to his extensive body of work as both a performer and a filmmaker. The Movie Artistes Association, of which he was a life member, has stepped in to organize the necessary arrangements for his final rites and to facilitate public homage.
Source: Times of India, Hindustan Times
Comments