Megastar Chiranjeevi expressed deep grief over the sudden demise of veteran actor and producer GV Narayana Rao, 73. Chiranjeevi paid his last respects to Narayana Rao’s mortal remains at Mahaprasthanam in Hyderabad and became emotional while recalling their nearly five-decade-long friendship.
Chiranjeevi said their bond dates back to 1977, when they were associated with the Madras Film Institute. While Chiranjeevi was undergoing acting training, Narayana Rao was a senior student who used to attend their classes. What began as an acquaintance eventually turned into a close friendship that lasted for decades.
Narayana Rao produced several successful films, including Chiranjeevi-starrers such as ‘Yamudiki Mogudu’ and ‘Devantakudu’. He was also associated with films such as ‘Chattanki Kallu Levu’ and ‘Intiko Rudramma’. Remembering him, Chiranjeevi described Narayana Rao as a determined person who would not rest until he completed whatever task he had undertaken. He also said that cinema was his passion.
Chiranjeevi became particularly emotional while recalling their last meeting just a few days ago. Narayana Rao had reportedly met him and requested him to launch the trailer of his new project. Chiranjeevi said he had assured his friend that they would do it and wished him all the best. However, he never imagined that it would be their last meeting and final conversation.
Narayana Rao made his acting debut with K. Balachander’s 1976 film ‘Antuleni Katha’. Apart from films, he also made his mark through several television serials with his natural performances.
Paying tribute to his longtime friend, Chiranjeevi said Narayana Rao’s contribution to the Telugu film industry would always be remembered. He prayed for the departed soul and conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Narayana Rao’s final rites were performed at Mahaprasthanam in Hyderabad amid the presence of film personalities and grieving fans.
