The demise of veteran actor-producer Madala Ranga Rao has shocked the Telugu film industry. Rich tributes have been paid. Ranga Rao's contribution to Telugu cinema has been hailed.

Megastar Chiranjeevi has particularly remembered the idealism of Madala. "When he was making idealistic movies in the 1980s, he was very popular and was offered mainstream commercial films. But he didn't do them. Ranga Rao garu believed in his principles. He inspired people through his films. He was such a committed person. R Narayana Murthy garu, for example, has learned so much from him," the 'Sye Raa' actor said today.

Pawan Kalyan issued a press note through Jana Sena Party. "Ranga Rao garu is one of those talents who has a high place in the film industry. The films he made in 1980s mirrored the realities of the day. He held Leftist and progressive views. 'Erra Mallelu', 'Swarajyam' and 'Viplava Sankam' are a few of his best products. Not just the subjects of those movies but also their songs were thought-provoking. For example, the problems of the unemployed youth were a recurrent theme in his films."