Raavi Kondala Rao

Biography:

Raavi Kondala Rao, born on February 11, 1932, and passing away on July 28, 2020, was a versatile Indian talent who made significant contributions to Telugu cinema, theatre, and journalism. He had a prolific career, with roles spanning actor, screenwriter, playwright, and journalist.

Rao’s acting career began in 1958 with his debut film, “Sobha,” and he went on to appear in over 400 films. He gained recognition as an actor with “Preminchi Choodu” in 1964 and was particularly known for his collaborations with the renowned Bapu-Ramana duo. His talent extended to screenwriting, and he received the Nandi Award for Best Story Writer for “Pelli Pusthakam” in 1991. He also earned accolades with the Nandi Award for Best Book on Telugu Cinema for “Black and White.”

In addition to his film work, Rao was an accomplished journalist and writer. He served as an editor, columnist, and writer for various English and Telugu newspapers and magazines. He was associated with publications like Vijaya Chitra, Mahodaya, Aanandavani, Sitara, Andhra Jyothi, and others.

Raavi Kondala Rao’s passion for writing was nurtured by inspirations like Kodavatiganti Kutumba Rao and was further encouraged by notable figures like Mullapudi Venkata Ramana and Gutha Ramineedu. His journey also included a stint as an assistant director for filmmakers like B. N. Reddy, Kamalakara Kameswara Rao, and D. V. Narasa Raju, contributing to films like “Nartanasala” (1963) and “Pooja Phalam” (1964).