Legendary Filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao Dies at 94, Jr NTR and Other Celebrities Pay Tribute

Veteran filmmaker Singeetham Srinivasa Rao, known for his innovative approach to Indian cinema and films such as Pushpaka Vimanam and Aditya 369, has died at the age of 94.

The filmmaker passed away at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai on Saturday night after undergoing treatment for age-related health complications. His death has led to an outpouring of tributes from actors, filmmakers and other members of the South Indian film industry.

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao Dies at 94

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao had been receiving treatment at Kauvery Hospital after his health deteriorated in recent days. He was being treated for complications related to age.

His death marks the end of a filmmaking career that spanned nearly six decades and was recognised for its experimentation with genres, storytelling formats and cinematic techniques.

Jr NTR Pays Tribute to Singeetham Srinivasa Rao

Following the news of the filmmaker’s death, tributes began pouring in from across the South Indian film industry.

Actor Jr NTR remembered Singeetham Srinivasa Rao for his forward-thinking approach to filmmaking. He described him as “a visionary who thought ahead of their time, delivering films that feel fresh even across generations.”

Jr NTR’s tribute highlighted the lasting impact of Singeetham’s creative ideas and his contribution to Indian cinema.

Devi Sri Prasad Remembers the Veteran Filmmaker

Composer Devi Sri Prasad also paid tribute to Singeetham Srinivasa Rao on X.

In his tribute, Devi Sri Prasad described Singeetham as an “unparalleled legend” and praised his positivity, futuristic ideas and filmmaking techniques. He also recalled being blessed to have known and worked with the veteran filmmaker.

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao's Early Life and Career

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao was born on September 21, 1931, in Gudur, Andhra Pradesh.

He began his career as an assistant to acclaimed filmmaker L.V. Prasad. Singeetham later made his directorial debut with Neeti Nijayiti in 1972.

Over the course of his career, he worked across five languages and built a filmography known for experimentation and diverse storytelling.

Pushpaka Vimanam Remains One of His Best-Known Films

Among Singeetham Srinivasa Rao’s most recognised works is Pushpaka Vimanam, a dialogue-free black comedy starring Kamal Haasan.

The film went on to win the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, adding to Singeetham’s reputation for creating distinctive and unconventional cinema.

Aditya 369 and His Exploration of Science Fiction

Singeetham also explored science fiction with Aditya 369, starring Nandamuri Balakrishna and featuring music by Ilaiyaraaja.

The film is regarded as the first Telugu science fiction movie to explore time travel, reflecting Singeetham’s willingness to experiment with concepts and storytelling techniques.

Mayur and Bhairava Dweepam

Another significant film in Singeetham Srinivasa Rao’s career was Mayur, a biographical drama based on amputee classical dancer Sudha Chandran.

The film received several awards.

He later directed Bhairava Dweepam, a fantasy adventure starring Nandamuri Balakrishna. The film completed a 100-day theatrical run in 28 centres.

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao's Work Across Languages

While Singeetham made a significant contribution to Telugu cinema, his work extended beyond it.

He also worked extensively in Kannada and Hindi films, establishing a career across different genres and cinematic languages.

His filmography reflected a consistent willingness to experiment with subjects, formats and storytelling approaches.

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao's Final Film

Despite his age, Singeetham Srinivasa Rao remained creatively active.

His final film, Sing Geetham, a musical fantasy produced by Nag Ashwin, was completed earlier this year.

His continued involvement in filmmaking at the age of 94 made him one of the oldest active filmmakers in the world.

A Lasting Legacy in Indian Cinema

Singeetham Srinivasa Rao leaves behind a body of work defined by experimentation, creativity and a willingness to explore unconventional cinematic ideas.

From the dialogue-free storytelling of Pushpaka Vimanam to the time-travel concept of Aditya 369, his films reflected a distinctive approach to filmmaking.

As tributes continue to come in from members of the film industry, Singeetham Srinivasa Rao will be remembered for the ideas, films and cinematic techniques that shaped his remarkable career.

( Sources by agencies )