As the news of Ramoji Rao's death broke early Saturday (June 8), people from the film fraternity have been mourning the media mogul. Along all is director SS Rajamouli, who penned a long tributary note and requested for Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of India, to honour Rao's legacy.

One man with his 50 years of resilience: SS Rajamouli

Taking to his X handle, SS Rajamouli wrote, "ONE man with his 50 years of resilience, hardwork and innovation provided employment, livelihood and hope for millions." He added that the only way to pay tribute to Ramoji Rao is by conferring him with Bharat Ratna.

Soon after he dropped the post, Allu Arjun seconded his thought and in the comment section wrote, "I had the same feeling in my heart sir. You spoke my heart. Thank you for voicing it." Fans also flooded the comment section asking for the same.

For the unversed, Rajamouli's iconic and magnum opus movies such as the Baahubali series and RRR were brought to life in Ramoji Film City, founded by Ramoji Rao.

Who was Ramoji Rao?

Cherukuri Ramoji Rao was born to an agricultural family on November 16, 1936, in Pedaparupudi of Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh. His legacy is vast, encompassing numerous successful business ventures and media productions. In 2016, Rao was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, presented by then-President Pranab Mukherjee for his contributions to journalism, literature and education.

His mortal remains have been taken to his residence in Ramoji Film City. He is survived by his wife, Rama Devi, and elder son, Ch Kiran, who is heading the Eenadu group of publications and ETV channels. His younger son, Cherukuri Suman, died of leukaemia on September 7, 2012.