This is a story of a film legend. A. N. Rao's long career as an actor, producer, and studio owner took him from the paddy fields to the popcorn halls of the Telugu-language cinema of India. Born to a poor family as the youngest of five brothers, Rao made his film debut at the age of 17 in the Telugu film Dharmapatni, beginning a successful acting career that lasted more than six decades.

Rao's main talent was his variety. His roles ranged from charming princes to frustrated alcoholics, from valiant soldiers to saints and holy figures, from college students to composed government officials. All this made him an icon of the young Indian cinema.

In addition to his acting career, Rao was a veteran producer in the Telugu film industry, and was responsible for its move to Hyderabad. Together with his wife of 78 years (since he was 10), Annapurna Akkineni, he established Annapurna studios.

Rao died on January 22 at his home in Hyderabad at the age of 90. Deceased Hose and WEP get 5 points each for the hit (2 for hit + 3 for duet).

--WEP