Sun Feb 16 00:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Legendary Telugu Actress and Producer Krishnaveni Passes Away at 102
**Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh –** Veteran Telugu actress and producer Krishnaveni passed away this morning at the age of 102. She had been suffering from age-related ailments for the past few weeks. Her death has cast a pall of gloom over the Telugu film industry.
Krishnaveni, born on December 24, 1924, in Pangidi, West Godavari district, achieved legendary status for her significant contributions to Telugu cinema. She was a pioneering female producer and is remembered for introducing iconic figures to the industry. Most notably, she launched the career of legendary actor Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) in the film “Mana Desam.”
Her career spanned several decades, with roles in over twenty films. She was not only a highly-paid actress of her time (for Telugu cinema) but also a talented playback singer, often lending her voice to her own songs. Her performance in the film “Anasuya” where she played the titular role, is particularly noteworthy, lasting for ten years. Furthermore, she acted as a child artist in “Tukaram” and debuted as a heroine in “Kacha Devayani” in 1938.
Beyond acting, Krishnaveni’s legacy extends to her role as a producer. She is credited with launching the careers of several prominent figures, including music directors Ghantasala and Ramesh Naidu, playback singers P. Leela and Jikki, and screenwriter Tripuraneni Gopichand. Her daughter, Anuratha Devi, also followed in her footsteps as a film producer.
Krishnaveni’s last acting role was in “Saahasam” (1952), and her last production was “Dampatya” (1957). She received the prestigious Raghu Pati Venkayya award. Recently, she attended the diamond jubilee celebrations of “Mana Desam”. She will be remembered as a true icon of Telugu cinema, a pioneering woman, and a remarkable talent.
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