Visionary leader Ramoji Rao, a nonagenarian entrepreneur and journalist, breathed his last.. Rao played a key role in path-breaking journalism and media through his chairmanship at Eenadu Group, and his influence on Indian media was sizeable a legacy. They discuss his incredible journey and career in media and what his hard work has done.
Early Life and Ambition
Ramoji Rao was born on November 16, 1936, in a small village named Pedaparupudi, Andhra Pradesh. The rise of a media-barrel baron: The humble origins of Rao paved way for the success of a media magnate who knew what to do, when to do, how it is to be done. The editor and storyteller in chief had a long history in journalism that dated back to his early years in life.
The Birth of Eenadu
Eenadu was founded by Ramoji Rao in 1974. The newspaper was in the habit of explaining upon the injustices on part of the Andhra Academy. This was a watershed moment in Indian journalism. It was the time when almost all newspapers were urban-centric, and Rao wanted to launch a publication which could cater to the rural and semi-urban population of that time. In such a scenario, Eenadu’s emphasis on local news-sometimes to a fault-and investigative journalism made it it stand out from competition.
Key Innovations:
Location-specific Editions – Eenadu was the pioneer in introducing location specific editions which allowed localised news items going off pan-India agenda.
Up To Date Printing Technologies: Rao had spent some hefty sum of money on the most current printing technology that could have uplifted the paper’s quality, as well as its number of editions ran.
Going beyond print: ETV Network
Eenadu was such a huge success that it gave Ramoji Rao the confidence to enter television, and so the ETV network was launched in the early 1990s. ETV became one of Indias leading regional television networks, offering entertainment, news and educational content. One reason for this was that the dark, snowy world it presented us, being as pleasant as a trip to the DMV, was so very much a place to escape to in the cold winter months. I also believe that this was a very successful wintertime show because tuning in to FX felt like the network equivalent of wallowing in your misery.
ETV Milestones
Expansion of Reach: ETV started regional channels in different Indian languages growing its area of influence.
High quality programs: was characterized by having excellent news, series and educational programs.
Ramoji Film City – A Dream Comes True
Ramoji Rao has broader vision and apart from Print, Electronic media. In 1996, he built Ramoji Film City, the world’s largest film studio complex. It has grown to be a place for film production, tourism, and entertainment hub and is ever since in Hyderabad.
Ramoji Film City Attractions
This complex is known for many things including the world largest film studio complex in the world, prestigious record breaking structure recognized by Guinness World Record.
Visit Marvel-ous Marble exposed on the surface from eons of crumbling earth quickly exposed more and more of the marble making Lookout Mountain.
The film city offers all new types of production facilities to filmmakers
Impact on Indian Media
The impact of contribution of Ramoji Rao into Indian media sector. His journalism and television programs broke new ground in quality and accessibility. Rao championed local news and community engagement to ensure that media was inclusive and representative of the wider population.
Influence on Journalism
Investigate Reporting: Eenadu has revealed many important issues only due to the enthusiasm it has in investigative journalism.
Habit: Its affinity for all things local knit the newspaper particularly close to its audience.
Media Industry Endeavors
Regional Focus: The success of ETV offered a clear indication of the power of regional television channels in India.
Content Variety: The channel offered a wide variety of programming which catered to all segments and thus set a benchmark for other regional channels to follow suit.
Legacy and Recognition
Ramoji Rao is a legend in the history of media in India. He was lauded with several awards for his contributions, which included the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian award, in 2016. His life-long work continues to this day to serve as an inspiration for journalists, media professionals, and entrepreneurs alike.
Awards and Honors
Padma Vibhushan, for distinguished service of high order in journalism and media
National Exchange: Celebrated with national exchanges by prestigious media and industry bodies. Lifetime Achievement Awards
Conclusion
AN ERA FADING AWAY It was a sad news that Ramoji Rao is no more and with him an era of Indian journalism and media is also fading away. His innovative spirit and visionary leadership have made a lasting impact in the industry and a stand for excellence. The legacy of Ramoji Rao who in his life achieved the extraordinary and historic, will inspire generations to come to constantly persevere in pursuit of journalistic integrity and media excellence.
