Versatile Personality, Legendary Artist Gollapudi Maruthi Rao No MoreNoted film personality, a versatile artist and multifaceted personality Gollapudi Maruthi Rao is no more. He breathed his last today at a hospital in Chennai. Gollapudi Maruthi Rao was 80 years old and is survived by a son.

Born on April 14, 1939, in Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, Gollapudi Maruthi Rao completed his studies at Andhra University, Visakhapatnam. He later joined All India Rao and simultaneously continued as a writer writing several plays, novels, stories etc. Gollapudi Maruthi Rao also wrote a weekly column, Jeevana Kaalam for over 24 years.

Gollapudi Maruthi Rao was a man with many talents. He was a writer (plays, books, and dialogues), journalist, and stage actor besides being an actor in movies. His contribution to Telugu literature is immense with works like Rendu Rellu Aaru, Patita, Karuninchani Devatalu etc. getting State Awards.

As an actor, Gollapudi Maruthi Rao’s journey began from Intlo Ramayya Veedhilo Krisnayya. His unique dialogue delivery and performance made him stand out among stalwart character actors of Telugu cinema.

Gollapudi Maruthi Rao has won six Nandi awards in various categories for Story, Screenplay, Dialogues, Comedian, Character Actor, and Actor. It is a reflection of the ‘genius’ versatility that he exhibited. Telugu cinema has lost a legend. May his soul rest in peace.