Remembering rao Balasaraswati: The Pioneering Voice of Telugu Cinema
Rao Balasaraswati,a true legend of Indian cinema,has passed away at the age of 97. Her remarkable life and career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi film music. She died peacefully at her Hyderabad residence on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, due to age-related complications.
Considered the first playback singer in Telugu cinema, Balasaraswati’s contributions are immeasurable. You might be surprised to learn she began her artistic journey at the incredibly young age of six! Throughout her illustrious career,she gifted audiences with over 2,000 songs,a testament to her dedication and talent.
A versatile Artist
Her versatility extended beyond playback singing. She was also a celebrated actress, gracing both Telugu and Tamil films during the 1930s and 40s. Eventually, she chose to focus solely on music, a decision that allowed her to further refine her craft.
Furthermore, Balasaraswati holds the distinction of being the first ‘light music’ singer to grace the airwaves of all India Radio. This pioneering role cemented her status as a trailblazer in the world of Indian entertainment.
Collaborations with Legends
Throughout her career, she had the privilege of working alongside some of the most iconic music directors of her time. These included:
* S. Rajeswara Rao
* C.R. Subburaman
* K.V. Mahadevan
* Susarla Dakshinamurthi
* Ramesh Naidu
* Viswanathan-ramamoorthy
These collaborations resulted in a rich and diverse body of work that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its truly remarkable to think about the musical legacy she helped build.
A Legacy of Grief and Remembrance
News of her passing prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the telugu-speaking states.Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy acknowledged her death as an “irreplaceable loss” to the film industry. He specifically praised her for introducing classical music to Telugu cinema,a contribution that forever changed the sound of the industry.
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan fondly remembered her as a first-generation singer and actress. He noted how her voice transcended generations, earning her a cherished place in both classical and light music.
More Than Just a Singer
Rao Balasaraswati wasn’t just a singer; she was a cultural icon. Her voice became synonymous with an era, and her influence continues to inspire aspiring artists. If you’re a fan of classic Indian cinema, you’ve undoubtedly been touched by her artistry, even if you didn’t realize it.
she leaves behind a legacy that will be celebrated for generations to come.It’s a reminder of the power of music to connect us, to move us, and to endure.
This is a truly sad loss for the world of music, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family and fans. Her melodies will continue to echo in our hearts for years to come.
