Veteran Telugu actor, producer and director Giri Babu is no more. He began his career as a lead actor in the early 1970s, featuring in films such as Jagame Maya (1973) and Dorababu. However, he soon transitioned to antagonist and comic supporting roles, which came to define much of his career. Over the decades, he appeared in more than 600 films, including Jyothi, Kurukshetram, Vijetha, Hello Brother, Nuvve Kavali and Athadu.
As a producer, he backed projects such as Simha Garjana (1978) and Merupu Daadi (1984). He also ventured into direction, helming films including Ranarangam (1985), Indrajith (1990) and Nee Sukhame Ne Koruthunna (2008). His long and varied career established him as a familiar and versatile presence in Telugu cinema.
Giri Babu was already married and had children when he made his acting debut. “I was surprised when they picked me as a lead actor,” he once shared in an interview. Before entering films, he had been a theatre artiste. “As a stage artist, I would play only lead roles. I went on to do negative roles in many movies. An artist should be ready to play any part,” he once said. Filmmaker Kodi Ramakrishna was among the first to recognise his potential for comedy.
Condolences pour in
Tributes have been pouring in from members of the Telugu film industry and political leaders. Megastar Chiranjeevi took to X to describe Giri Babu’s passing as an “irreparable loss to the Telugu film industry”. He also lauded the actor’s “distinctive acting and unique style” across a range of films.
Pawan Kalyan’s office acknowledged Giri Babu’s “remarkable contribution to Telugu cinema and the memorable characters he brought to life on screen”. The statement added, “His legacy will continue to be cherished by generations of film lovers.”
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu described the actor’s demise as deeply saddening. “Born into an ordinary farming family in Prakasam district, Giribabu acted in over 600 films over five decades… delighting audiences as a villain, comedian and character artist. I pray for peace for Giribabu’s soul. I extend my deepest
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