Actor Fish Venkat Passes Away

Noted Telugu actor Mangilampally Venkatesh, affectionately known as Fish Venkat, passed away on Friday evening while undergoing treatment for kidney-related complications at a hospital in Hyderabad. He was 53.

Venkat had been battling chronic kidney ailments for several years and was receiving regular dialysis. In recent times, his family had appealed to the Telugu film industry and the public for financial assistance to support his ongoing medical treatment.

He is survived by his wife and three children.

Hailing from Musheerabad in Hyderabad, Venkatesh earned the moniker “Fish Venkat” from his early days selling fish in the local market before he found his calling in the world of cinema. His journey into films began through a close friendship with late actor Srihari, which eventually led to an introduction to director V.V. Vinayak. It was Vinayak who gave Venkat his first big break in the 2002 blockbuster Aadi, starring NTR Jr.

Fish Venkat went on to appear in nearly 90 films over two decades, often portraying side characters with a unique blend of humor and menace. Known for his Telangana dialect and sharp comic timing, he became a recognizable face in films such as Aadi, Dil, Bunny, and more recently, the cult hit DJ Tillu.

His contributions to Telugu cinema extended beyond the screen — Venkat was celebrated for his humility, grounded nature, and his unwavering passion for acting. Despite being a supporting artist, he built a lasting rapport with audiences and filmmakers alike, carving out a niche with his memorable performances and natural flair.

The news of his passing has left the film fraternity and fans mourning the loss of a beloved artist. Tributes have been pouring in from across the Telugu film industry, with many remembering him as a dedicated actor who rose from humble beginnings to make his mark in cinema.

Fish Venkat’s legacy lives on through the laughter and energy he brought to the screen — a true testament to his journey from Musheerabad’s fish market to the hearts of millions of moviegoers.