Kodi Ramakrishna, a prominent figure in Telugu cinema, left an indelible mark on South Indian film. This post explores his life, career, and legacy.

Wiki/Biography

Born on July 23, 1955, in Palakollu, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, Kodi Ramakrishna’s education was at Andhra University. He began his journey in Tollywood, making a significant contribution to Telugu cinema.

Family

While details about his immediate family members remain private, he is known to have been married and had a son and a daughter.

Career

Ramakrishna’s directorial debut in 1982 with Intlo Ramayya Veedhilo Krishnayya marked the beginning of a prolific career spanning nearly three decades. He directed over 100 films, showcasing his versatility and storytelling prowess.

Beyond directing, he was also a successful screenwriter and actor, appearing in several films such as:

• Mudilla Muchata (1985)
• Attagaaroo Swagatam (1986)
• Inti Donga (1987)
• Aasti Mooredu Aasha Baaredu (1995)
• Dongaata (1997)

Awards

His contributions to Telugu cinema were recognized with numerous accolades including:

• Raghupathi Venkaiah Award (2012)
• Three Lifetime Achievement Awards
• Filmfare Award for Satruvu (1990)
• Tollywood Film Award for Arundhati (2009)
• Many other prestigious awards

Death

After recovering from a heart stroke and paralytic attack years prior, Ramakrishna experienced discomfort and breathlessness on February 21, 2019. He was admitted to AIG Hospitals in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, and placed in the ICU on a ventilator. Sadly, his condition worsened, and he passed away on February 22, 2019, due to kidney failure.

Facts

Many of Ramakrishna’s films carried strong social messages and were set in rural environments. His notable successes included:

• Aahuti
• Ammoru
• Mangammagari Manavadu
• Devi
• Arundhati
• Maa Aavida Collector
• Devudu
• Satruvu
• Deviputrudu

Mangamma Gari Manavadu ran for an impressive 500 days, while Tarangini achieved a 365-day run. He humbly acknowledged the contributions of his producers to his success and is remembered for launching the careers of actors like Bhanu Chander, Arjun, and Suman. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu publicly offered his condolences.

Key Film Statistics

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