Hyderabad, July 16, 2025 — In a sad development from the Telugu film industry, Bhupathiraju Rajagopal Raju, father of Tollywood superstar Ravi Teja, passed away at the age of 90 on Tuesday night. According to a statement shared by the actor’s publicists, Rajagopal Raju died at Ravi Teja’s residence in Hyderabad due to age-related ailments.
Details about the last rites and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
A Life of Simplicity Behind the Stardom
Rajagopal Raju was a pharmacist by profession and led a low-profile life, despite being the father of one of Telugu cinema’s most prominent stars. Known for his humility, he continued working even after Ravi Teja rose to fame. He rarely made public appearances with his family.
Raju’s career and frequent transfers took the family across India, with stints in Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bhopal. He is survived by his wife Rajya Lakshmi and sons Ravi Teja and another unnamed son. His third son, actor Bharath Raju, tragically passed away in a car accident in 2017.
Condolences Pour In from the Telugu Film Industry
Following the news of his passing, fans and celebrities from the Telugu film fraternity have offered condolences. Superstar Chiranjeevi, in a heartfelt message shared by trade analyst Ramesh Bala, said:
“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ravi Teja’s father, Raj Gopal Raju garu. I last met him on the sets of Waltair Veerayya. In this difficult time, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family. I pray for his soul to rest in peace.”
Fans took to social media platforms to pay tribute, sharing messages of support and remembering Raju for his humility and simplicity.
Ravi Teja: From Assistant Director to Mass Maharaja
Born Bhupatiraju Ravi Shankar Raju, Ravi Teja adopted his stage name in the early 1990s. He began his career working as an assistant director before gaining recognition with Sindhooram in 1997. Throughout the 2000s, he solidified his status as a lead actor, earning the title of “Mass Maharaja” and becoming one of the highest-paid actors in Telugu cinema.
His most recent film, Mr. Bachchan (2024), received positive responses from audiences.
Our deepest condolences to Ravi Teja and his family during this difficult time. May Rajagopal Raju’s soul rest in peace.
