Veteran writer CS Rao no more

Chintapenta Satyanarayana Rao, popularly known as CS Rao (84), the well-known writer, playwright, actor, and trainer, passed away today.

Born on December 20, 1935, CS Rao, an eminent theatre personality, is also known for scripting Chiranjeevi's debut film, Pranam Khareedu (1978). He also scripted famous films like Oorummadi Bathukulu, Kamalamma Kamatam, Kukka Kaatuku Cheppu Debba, Taram Maarindi, Nayakudu Vinayakudu, Malle Moggalu, Yagnam, and Deeksha.

CS Rao made is onscreen acting debut with the Kamal Haasan-starrer Sommokadidi Sokokadidi (1978), directed by Singeetam Srinivasa Rao and written by the late Jandhyala. He also acted in films like the NT Rama Rao-starrer Sarada Ramudu and Matti Manushulu.

Rao made a name not only as a writer but also as a documentary filmmaker and an acting trainer.

A highly regarded intellectual, Rao also served as a correspondent for Geetanjali High School, Chikkadpally.

Theatre veteran and former Chairman of Andhra Pradesh Nataka Academy, Gummadi Gopalakrishna and a host of other prominent artists condoled the death of CS Rao. His last rites will be held in Hyderabad on Wednesday.

CS Rao is survived by a daughter and two sons.