Kota Srinivasa Rao Age: The world of Indian cinema, particularly Telugu cinema, lost a towering figure on July 13, 2025, when Kota Srinivasa Rao passed away at the age of 83. Born on July 10, 1942, in Kankipadu, Andhra Pradesh, Rao lived a remarkable life that left an indelible mark on the film industry and beyond. His age at the time of his passing, just days after celebrating his 83rd birthday, has sparked conversations about his incredible journey as an actor, politician, and cultural icon. In this blog post, we’ll explore Kota Srinivasa Rao’s life, focusing on his age and the legacy he leaves behind.
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A Life Well-Lived: Born in 1942
Kota Srinivasa Rao was born into a Telugu Brahmin family in the village of Kankipadu, Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh. His birth on July 10, 1942, placed him in a generation that witnessed India’s transition from colonial rule to independence, a backdrop that shaped his worldview and career. At the age of 83, when he passed away in 2025, Rao had lived through decades of transformation in Indian cinema, evolving from a theatre enthusiast to one of the most versatile actors in the industry.
His early years were not centered on acting. Rao initially aspired to become a doctor, following in the footsteps of his father, Seetha Rama Anjaneyulu, who was a physician. However, his passion for the stage took root during his college years, where he performed in numerous plays while pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree. After a brief stint as a State Bank employee, Rao’s love for acting led him to the silver screen, where he debuted in 1978 with the Telugu film Pranam Khareedu. His age at the time of his debut, 36, was relatively late for an actor, but it marked the beginning of a prolific career that spanned over four decades.
A Prolific Career: Over 750 Films by Age 83
By the time Kota Srinivasa Rao reached his 80s, he had become a household name, known for his versatility in Telugu cinema and beyond. His filmography, boasting over 750 films, is a testament to his enduring presence in the industry. Rao’s ability to seamlessly switch between villainous roles, comedic characters, and emotionally layered supporting parts made him a favorite among directors and audiences alike. Films like Aha Naa Pellanta!, Gaayam, Athadu, and Bommarillu showcased his range, earning him nine Nandi Awards and a Padma Shri in 2015, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor.
Even as he aged, Rao’s passion for acting remained undiminished. His unique dialogue delivery, often infused with Telangana slang, brought a fresh energy to his roles. In his later years, despite health challenges, he continued to take on select projects, with his final film, Suvarna Sundari, releasing in 2023. At 83, his contributions to cinema were not just a reflection of his talent but also of his resilience, as he worked through age-related ailments until his final days.
Beyond the Screen: A Political Journey
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s life wasn’t confined to cinema. In his late 50s, at the age of 57, he ventured into politics, serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Vijayawada East from 1999 to 2004 under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His political career, though brief, showcased his commitment to public service. However, his limited presence in his constituency drew criticism, as he spent much of his time in Hyderabad due to his acting commitments. By the time he was 62, Rao chose to focus primarily on his film career, leaving politics behind but retaining the respect of many for his contributions.
This chapter of his life, which began when he was well into middle age, highlighted his willingness to explore new avenues. It’s remarkable to think that Rao balanced these dual roles—actor and politician—while continuing to deliver memorable performances on screen.
A Lasting Legacy at 83
Kota Srinivasa Rao’s passing at 83 has left a void in Indian cinema, but his legacy endures. His ability to bring characters to life, whether as the menacing villain in Gaayam or the comedic Lakshmipathy in Aha Naa Pellanta!, earned him a special place in the hearts of audiences. Tributes from industry giants like SS Rajamouli, Chiranjeevi, and Vishnu Manchu poured in, reflecting the profound impact he had on colleagues and fans alike.
Rao’s personal life, marked by the tragic loss of his son, Kota Venkata Anjaneya Prasad, in a 2010 road accident, added a layer of resilience to his story. Despite personal hardships, he continued to entertain millions. At 83, his body of work—spanning Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam films—remains a treasure trove for cinephiles. His nine Nandi Awards, SIIMA Award for Krishnam Vande Jagadgurum (2012), and the Padma Shri are just a few markers of a career that defined versatility.
As we reflect on Kota Srinivasa Rao’s age and life, we celebrate a man who, from his 30s to his 80s, lived with passion and purpose. His contributions to cinema and public life will continue to inspire generations, proving that age is no barrier to leaving a lasting mark.
Sources: Information compiled from various web sources, including Wikipedia and news articles from Hindustan Times and The Hindu.