Punjab Newsline | Mumbai

Renowned filmmaker Singeetam Srinivasa Rao passed away on Saturday at the age of 95. He breathed his last at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai, where he was undergoing treatment for health-related problems. His death has sent shockwaves across the Telugu, Kannada, Tamil and Hindi film industries, with several actors and filmmakers taking to social media to pay tribute to the veteran filmmaker and remember his contribution to Indian cinema.

Singeetam Srinivasa Rao directed around 60 films in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Hindi and English during his long and distinguished career. His notable works include Pushpak Vimanam, Aditya 369 and Mayuri. Known for his distinctive storytelling style and experimental approach to filmmaking, Rao received two National Film Awards along with several other prestigious honours.

Even at an advanced age, Rao continued to remain connected with cinema. At the age of 94, he directed his final film, Sing Geetham, which was released on June 12, 2026. His continued creative involvement with filmmaking was widely regarded as a reflection of his enduring passion for cinema.

Filmmaker SS Rajamouli remembered Rao as a visionary who always thought ahead of his time. Referring to films such as Aditya 369, Pushpak Vimanam and Mayuri, Rajamouli said that Rao created works whose appeal continues to feel fresh even across generations. He also expressed his condolences to the filmmaker’s family.

Actor Jr NTR also expressed grief over Rao’s demise and remembered his lasting contribution to Indian cinema. He paid tribute to the filmmaker and recalled the impact of his work on generations of audiences and filmmakers.

Kamal Haasan, who shared a close professional and personal relationship with Singeetam Srinivasa Rao, also wrote an emotional tribute. He remembered Rao’s youthful energy, creativity and the influence he had on people around him, describing him as one of the friends and mentors who had been part of his cinematic journey.

Rao’s filmography included several acclaimed and popular films, including Raja Paarvai, Little John, Apoorva Sagodharargal, Michael Madana Kama Rajan, Kaadhal Kaadhal, Pushpak Vimanam and Aditya 369. Through his innovative storytelling and creative vision, Singeetam Srinivasa Rao left a distinctive mark on Indian cinema that is expected to be remembered for years to come.