HYDERABAD: Actor and former MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao, renowned for several critically acclaimed performances, passed away at his home in Hyderabad due to age-related illnesses on Sunday. He was 83.

Rao appeared in more than 650 films, mostly playing antagonist and comical roles, during an illustrious career spanning over four decades.

Born in 1942, Rao entered the film industry through ‘Pranam Khareedu’ (Telugu), released in 1978. He also acted in other languages, including Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi, sang a number of Telugu songs, besides working as a dubbing artiste.

Some of the iconic characters he played in Tamil movies include Perumal Pichai in Vikram’s Saamy (2003), Saniyan Sagadai in Vijay-starrer Thirupaachi (2005), and Kondal Dhasan in Vishal’s Sathyam (2008). His other notable roles are Aalavandhan in Ko (2011), Perumal in Saguni, and Chokkanathan in All In All Azhagu Raja. His last Tamil film was Kaathadi, which was released in 2018.

Rao’s final on-screen appearance will be in Pawan Kalyan-starrer Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1, scheduled for release on July 24.

The Padma Shri awardee served as a BJP MLA in Vijayawada East assembly constituency in Andhra Pradesh from 1999 to 2004.

Political leaders and the film fraternity mourned Rao. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Andhra Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, actor-politician Chiranjeevi also condoled Rao’s passing.

Andhra Pradesh deputy CM and actor Pawan Kalyan said, “acting with him in more than half a dozen films will remain a lasting memory.” He also recalled that Rao had started his film journey with ‘Pranam Khareedu’, which also starred his brother Chiranjeevi.

Actor Simran noted that his voice, presence, and craft were truly one of a kind.

“We lost a legend today. His love for the craft, his energy on the set, and the unforgettable characters he brought to life will always stay with us. A true actor’s actor,” actor Karthi said.