Veteran Telugu actor Giribabu dies at 80 in Hyderabad after prolonged illness
Hyderabad: Veteran Telugu actor Giribabu died at the age of 80 on Saturday, November 14, while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Hyderabad. He had been suffering from health problems for some time.
His death prompted expressions of grief from film personalities and fans across the Telugu film industry. Members of the film fraternity described his passing as a major loss to Telugu cinema.
Giribabu had appeared in more than 600 films during a career spanning nearly five decades. He worked as a lead actor, villain, character artist and comedian, besides directing and producing films.
Telugu actor Giribabu dies after a long film career
Born on June 8, 1946, in Ravinutala village of Prakasam district, Giribabu’s original name was Yerra Seshagiri Rao. His interest in acting led him to enter the Telugu film industry, where he made his screen debut in 1973.
His first film was Jagame Maya, which marked the beginning of his long association with Telugu cinema. Initially, Giribabu appeared in lead roles. However, he later gained wider recognition for portraying villains and supporting characters.
His ability to perform different roles helped him establish a career across several genres. Over the years, he appeared in more than 600 films, taking on villainous, character and comedy roles.
Giribabu featured in numerous Telugu productions during his career. His notable films included Karunamayudu, Simhagarjana, Kanchu Kagada and Simhasanam. He also appeared in Khadgam, Athadu, Gamyam, Damarukam and Geetha Govindam.
Through these films, he reached audiences across different generations of Telugu cinema. While his early career included lead performances, his later work covered a wider range of supporting roles.
His performances as an antagonist, character artist and comedian earned him recognition among Telugu film audiences. Apart from acting, Giribabu established himself as a film producer and director.
He founded the production company Jayabheri Pictures and produced several films under its banner. Additionally, he directed Ranarangam, Indrajith and Nee Sukhame Ne Korunyanna.
His involvement in filmmaking extended beyond acting to directing productions and managing film projects. Through Jayabheri Pictures, he contributed to Telugu cinema as a producer while continuing his acting career. His son, actor Raghubabu, also established a career in the Telugu film industry, continuing the family’s association with cinema.
Film personalities and fans mourn Giribabu’s death
Following reports that Telugu actor Giribabu had died, film personalities and fans expressed shock and sadness. Members of the Telugu film fraternity described his death as a significant loss to the industry.
His career included more than 600 screen appearances and work in film production and direction. Giribabu’s contributions covered several decades of Telugu cinema, from his debut in 1973 to his later character roles. His son Raghubabu continues to work in the film industry, carrying forward the family’s connection with Telugu filmmaking.