Ramoji Rao's death marks the end of an era in Indian media: Daiba Pradeep Roy

Reflecting on my 15 years and 3 months with ETV, I am deeply saddened by the news of Ramoji Rao's passing today. His visionary leadership has been both transformative and inspiring, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with him. Starting as a Junior Executive and working my way up to the position of Business Head, my journey was profoundly influenced by the guidance and mentorship of Chairman Sir, Ramoji Rao.

Chairman Sir was always a fatherly personality, embodying a unique blend of teaching, coaching, and pampering that made him an exceptional leader. His approach wasn't just about giving orders; it was about nurturing growth, fostering innovation, and instilling confidence in his team. He had tremendous faith in us, on his team, and this trust was a cornerstone of his leadership style.

One of the most remarkable stories from my time at ETV is from January 27, 2002, when we launched the first cable and satellite Hindi regional news channel. Initially designed as an infotainment channel, this venture was a testament to Chairman Sir's pure vision of serving news to the public as it comes, without any compromise. His commitment to unbiased and unadulterated news was clear from the outset, and it set a new standard in the industry.

Another vivid memory of my working as a UP UK branch head, Chairman Sir asked me to hire sales representatives in every major district of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Initially, I was taken aback by the magnitude of this directive and questioned the rationale behind such an expansive hiring strategy. In response, Chairman Sir offered a profound insight that left an indelible impact on my mindset: "If this becomes a success, it's your hard work. If it's a failure, it's my planning fault." This simple yet profound statement encapsulated his leadership philosophy—rooted in trust, accountability, and a shared sense of responsibility. By entrusting his team with autonomy and ownership, sir not only instilled a sense of confidence but also fostered a culture of innovation and collaboration. His words served as a catalyst, igniting a newfound sense of confidence and purpose in my work.

Throughout my career, I have heard many people express their admiration saying, "I wish to work in Ramoji Film City." This sentiment wasn't just about the allure of working in a renowned media hub; it was about the opportunity to be part of an environment where sir's principles and values were palpable. His vision for creating a holistic media ecosystem was evident in every corner of Ramoji Film City, and it imbued a sense of pride and purpose in everyone who walked through its gates.

Chairman Sir's principles extended beyond his direct interactions with his team—they were evident in the very atmosphere of Ramoji Film City. Visitors and employees alike could feel the dedication to excellence, the commitment to innovation, and the nurturing spirit that Rao championed. His legacy is more than just his accomplishments in media and entertainment; it's the enduring impact of his leadership style and the values he instilled in all of us.

As I look back on my career with ETV, I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that came my way under Sir Ramoji Rao's mentorship. His belief in my abilities and his guidance have been instrumental in my growth, shaping not only my professional journey but also my personal development like many others. Chairman Sir's influence will continue to resonate with me and countless others who had the privilege of working under his remarkable leadership.

Today, as we mourn the loss of this iconic figure, we also celebrate his extraordinary legacy. Ramoji Rao's vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence will continue to inspire and guide us. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian media, but his spirit and the principles he championed will endure for generations to come.