Veteran actor and writer Gollapudi Maruthi Rao today passed away in Chennai at a private hospital. Known for his versatility in popular outings such as ‘Swathi Mutyam’ and ‘Intlo Ramayya Veedhilo Krishnayya’, he had been suffering from an illness.

Also a scriptwriter, Maruthi Rao was known for such films as ‘Doctor Chakravarthy’ and ‘O Seetha Katha’. Having acted in more than 250 films, he was a familiar face with the Telugu audience.

Condolences are pouring in from all quarters. Superstar Mahesh Babu took to Twitter to say that he is deeply saddened by the sudden demise of Maruthi Rao. "His contribution to the TFI remains unparalleled. We have lost a gem. Heartfelt condolences to the family and dear ones. Rest in peace, Sir," the 'Sarileru Neekevvaru' actor said.

Natural Star Nani wrote, "Gollapudi Maruthi Rao gaaru, one of my most favourites. The way he spoke and the way he acted always felt so familiar and family like. You will always be remembered, Sir."

Allari Naresh said, "A huge loss to the film industry, one of my most favourite actors who was legendary in everything he did from writing to acting. Your presence will be missed by all of us, Sir."

Nikhil Siddhartha wrote, "Worked as an actor come Assistant director with Sir on a small movie before Happy Days.. the guidance and advice he gave me then is still with me... Rest in Peace sir.. you are always immortal and with us in the form of your brilliant movies."

Gollapudi Maruthi Rao gaaru, one of my most favourites.
The way he spoke and the way he acted always felt so familiar and family like. You will always be remembered Sir ????

— Nani (@NameisNani) December 12, 2019

A huge loss to the film industry, one of my most favourite actors who was legendary in everything he did from writing to acting. Your presence will be missed by all of us sir. #gollapudimaruthirao

— Allari Naresh (@allarinaresh) December 12, 2019

Worked as an actor come Assistant director with Sir on a small movie before Happy Days.. the guidance and advice he gave me then is still with me... Rest in Peace sir.. you are always immortal and with us in the form of your brilliant movies ????
Gollapudi Maruti Rao garu ???? pic.twitter.com/Jwzt5csokB

— Nikhil Siddhartha (@actor_Nikhil) December 12, 2019