Renowned director Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to Indian cinema, passed away on Saturday night at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai. He was 94 years old.
Rao had been hospitalized due to a decline in his health, which was attributed to age-related issues. His illustrious career spanned over sixty years and encompassed work in five different languages.
Born on September 21, 1931, in Gudur, Andhra Pradesh, Singeetham Srinivasa Rao began his journey in the film industry as an assistant to director L.V. Prasad. He made his directorial debut with the film Neeti Nijayiti in 1972.
Despite his advanced age, Rao continued to be active in filmmaking. His latest project, Sing Geetham, a musical fantasy produced by Nag Ashwin, was completed earlier this year, making him one of the oldest filmmakers still working today.
The news of his passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from actors, filmmakers, and industry figures across South Indian cinema. Actor Jr NTR praised him as “a visionary who thought ahead of his time, delivering films that feel fresh even across generations.” Composer Devi Sri Prasad took to social media platform X to express his sorrow, stating, “Dearest SINGEETAM SIR..We will MISS YOU Sir.. You will always live in our Hearts. You are an Unparalleled LEGEND..An Everest of Positivity filled with Evergreen Youth..The Movies You made with such Futuristic Ideas and Techniques are lessons to all of us and the Future Generations of Film Makers too. Thank you & Love You for Everything Sir..I am blessed to have known You & worked with You Sir.”
Among Singeetham Srinivasa Rao’s most acclaimed works are Mayur, a biographical drama about the amputee classical dancer Sudha Chandran, which garnered multiple awards. His film Pushpaka Vimanam, a unique dialogue-free black comedy featuring Kamal Haasan, won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Aditya 369, starring Nandamuri Balakrishna and with music by Ilaiyaraaja, was notable as the first Telugu film to explore the concept of time travel. Additionally, Bhairava Dweepam, also featuring Balakrishna, was a high-fantasy adventure that enjoyed a successful 100-day theatrical run in 28 locations. Rao’s extensive contributions also included significant works in the Kannada and Hindi film industries.
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