Veteran Telugu Actor Giri Babu Dies at 80 in Hyderabad; Chiranjeevi, Mohan Babu, and Pawan Kalyan Pay Tribute

Acclaimed Telugu actor Yerra Seshagiri Rao, widely known by his screen name Giri Babu, died on Saturday at a private hospital in Hyderabad. Aged 80, he had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments. His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from prominent figures across the Telugu film fraternity and political circles.

Public Homage and Funeral Details

The Movie Artistes Association (MAA) expressed deep sorrow over the loss of its life member. Per an official release from the association, the veteran actor’s mortal remains were scheduled to be placed at the Film Chamber on Saturday from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM for colleagues and admirers to pay their final respects. His last rites are set to be conducted on Sunday between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM in his native village of Ravinuthala, near Medarametla.

Film Fraternity and Leaders Mourn the Loss

• Chiranjeevi: Expressing shock over the news, Megastar Chiranjeevi highlighted Giri Babu’s multifaceted contributions to Telugu cinema as an actor, filmmaker, and producer. He noted that the late actor’s distinctive style and versatile screen presence would remain unforgettable, describing his demise as a major void for the industry.
• Mohan Babu: Visibly emotional, actor Mohan Babu reflected on their decades-long friendship, recalling how the two shared a room in Madras during their early days of struggle. He noted that Giri Babu entered cinema before him, and the two went on to collaborate on each other’s projects. Remembering him as a generous soul who excelled across acting, directing, and producing, Mohan Babu stated he was at a loss for words over his friend’s passing.
• Nandamuri Balakrishna: Recalling his early days in the industry, Nandamuri Balakrishna remembered sharing screen space with Giri Babu in Annadammula Anubandham and several subsequent films where the veteran played pivotal parts. Calling him an exceptional human being alongside a fine performer, Balakrishna extended heartfelt condolences to Giri Babu’s son, actor Raghu Babu, and the bereaved family.
• Pawan Kalyan: Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan paid homage to the late artiste’s versatility, remarking on his effortless transition across hero, antagonist, and supporting roles, as well as his sharp comedic timing. Acknowledging his achievements behind the camera as a producer and director, Pawan Kalyan conveyed his sympathies to Raghu Babu and the family.

A Five-Decade Legacy in Cinema

Hailing from Ravinuthala in the Prakasam district, Giri Babu made his silver screen debut with Jagame Maya. Initially stepping into lead roles, he later carved a niche for himself in negative and comic parts before becoming a staple in character roles. Across an illustrious career spanning nearly fifty years, he appeared in over 600 films and also ventured into film direction and production. He is survived by three children, including popular Telugu actor Raghu Babu.