GV Narayana Rao Dies at 73: Rajinikanth’s Batchmate and Senior Actor-Producer Passes Away
Veteran Telugu actor and producer G.V. Narayana Rao has passed away at the age of 73 after battling health issues for some time. The senior artiste breathed his last on Wednesday, August 26, leaving the Telugu film industry in mourning. Actress Karate Kalyani announced his demise on social media and paid tribute to the veteran actor.
Narayana Rao was known not only for his extensive acting career but also for his close association with some of the biggest names in South Indian cinema, including Superstar Rajinikanth and Megastar Chiranjeevi.
Rajinikanth’s Batchmate at Madras Film Institute
One of the most notable aspects of Narayana Rao’s early career was his association with Rajinikanth. The two were batchmates at the Madras Film Institute in Chennai, where they trained before entering the film industry. Their friendship continued over the years, and Narayana Rao had spoken about their early days and bond in several interviews.
Narayana Rao joined the first batch of the film institute in 1973. His connection with Rajinikanth became an important part of his personal journey in cinema.
Acting Career Spanned Nearly Five Decades
G.V. Narayana Rao made his acting debut with K. Balachander’s 1976 classic Anthuleni Katha. His performance earned him a Nandi Award for Best Supporting Actor, giving his career a strong beginning.
He subsequently appeared in more than 100 films, taking on lead, supporting and character roles. Some of his notable films include Muthyala Pallaki, Oka Oori Katha, Chilakamma Cheppindi, Gang Leader, Raja Vikramarka and Hitler. He also remained active in television and appeared in several serials.
Close Friendship With Chiranjeevi
Narayana Rao also shared a longstanding friendship with Chiranjeevi. The two worked together in several films, including Chattaniki Kallu Levu, Manchu Pallaki, Raja Vikramarka, Gang Leader and Hitler.
His association with Chiranjeevi extended beyond acting. Narayana Rao turned producer and backed films such as Devanthakudu and Yamudiki Mogudu. He later remade Yamudiki Mogudu in Tamil with his friend Rajinikanth.
Industry Mourns Veteran Actor
Narayana Rao’s death marks the end of a career spanning almost five decades. From his early days as a film institute student alongside Rajinikanth to becoming an actor, producer and television artiste, he remained connected with the South Indian entertainment industry for generations.
His contributions to Telugu cinema and his friendships with Rajinikanth and Chiranjeevi have made his passing particularly significant for fans and colleagues. Tributes are expected to continue pouring in as the industry remembers the veteran artiste.
