New Delhi, Jan 11 (UNI) Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday expressed profound grief on the passing away of veteran journalist Turlapati Kutumba Rao.
“I am deeply distressed to learn about the passing away of veteran journalist, Sri Turlapati Kutumba Rao. I have had long association with Sri Rao, who was a multi-faceted personality and an institution by himself—a freedom fighter, social worker, writer, renowned journalist and a great human being,” Mr Naidu said.
A recipient of Padma Sri, he maintained high ethical standards and values in all areas right from the days when he was the personal secretary to Andhra Kesari, Sri Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu, the Vice President said.
“During my recent visit to Vijayawada, Sri Rao had called on me at Swarna Bharat Trust, where I was staying. I had a lively discussion on a wide variety of topics with Sri Rao, who looked quite energetic and enthusiastic like always,” he added.
The news of his death has come as a major shock to me. The best tribute we can pay to him is by following the path shown by him and emulating the high standards set by him, Mr Naidu said.
“I convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and all his followers. Om Shanti!,” he added.
Renowned journalist Rao passed away on Monday in Vijayawada.
Born on August 10, 1933, to Sundara Ramanuja Rao and Seshamamba, he entered the journalism profession in 1946 at the age of 14 and served as secretary to first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Tanguturi Prakasam.
He has been in journalism for seven decades and has provided analysis on a number of key topics.
He has worked with 18 CMs, starting with Andhra Pradesh’s first Chief Minister Tanguturi Prakasam to Nara Chandrababu Naidu.
He first worked as a sub-editor of Vahini magazine, which was started by Acharya NG Ranga in 1951.
