The passing of veteran Telugu actor Kota Srinivasa Rao was a moment of deep grief for the film fraternity and fans alike. Held in Hyderabad, his funeral witnessed a sea of tributes and the presence of major stars from the Telugu film industry. But amid the somber atmosphere, an unexpected incident involving director SS Rajamouli has triggered a different kind of conversation—one about fan behaviour and the boundaries of public figures during personal moments.
A viral video that surfaced online captured SS Rajamouli exiting Kota Srinivasa Rao’s residence with his wife Rama Rajamouli. As they approached their vehicle, a fan rushed forward, attempting to take a selfie with the acclaimed director. What unfolded next has divided the internet. The fan continued to follow Rajamouli closely despite the funeral setting, prompting the filmmaker to physically push the fan aside and express his frustration with a visible wave of the hand.
While some viewers criticized Rajamouli for reacting aggressively, a large number of people online have defended his response, arguing that there is a time and place for everything. Many felt that approaching someone for a selfie at a funeral, especially when emotions are raw, crosses a basic line of decency. The setting was one of mourning, and Rajamouli, like many others present, was there to pay his final respects to a man he deeply admired.
Kota Srinivasa Rao, who passed away at the age of 83, was more than just an actor. With a career that began in 1978, he appeared in over 750 films, mastering roles that ranged from dramatic to comedic to villainous, earning admiration across languages and generations. He was a towering figure in Indian cinema whose performances left a permanent mark on Telugu film history.
Several other major actors including Chiranjeevi, Pawan Kalyan, Prakash Raj, Venkatesh Daggubati, and Rana Daggubati also visited the late actor’s home to offer their condolences. SS Rajamouli later took to social media to share his heartfelt tribute, calling Rao a master of his craft and a legend who breathed life into every character.
While the unfortunate incident has gone viral, it also serves as a moment of reflection. It is a reminder that celebrities, no matter how admired, deserve space during moments of personal grief. The pressure of being constantly accessible to fans can sometimes lead to such flashpoints, especially when the occasion demands solemnity and respect.
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