Ramoji Rao, founder of Ramoji Film City, passed away

• Ramoji Film City founder and media baron Ramoji Rao died on June 8 at the age of 87.

• He was a colossus in the field of media and his rich contributions have left an indelible mark on journalism and the film world.

• Ramoji Rao's Eenadu newspaper was crucial in influencing public opinion in favour of Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, also known as NTR, when he formed the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in opposition to the Congress in 1982.

• Apart from the world-famous Ramoji Film City, Rao's vast empire of media business also includes the Telugu daily Eenadu newspaper, a network of ETV channels and film production.

• In 2016, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second highest civilian award.