Veteran Telugu actor, filmmaker and producer Giri Babu passed away on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at a private hospital in Hyderabad. He was 80. Born Yerra Seshagiri Rao, the actor had been suffering from prolonged health complications and had reportedly been undergoing treatment in the city. His death marks the end of a career spanning more than five decades, during which he appeared in approximately 600 films and worked alongside several generations of Telugu cinema’s leading actors.
According to his son and actor Raghu Babu, Giri Babu had been battling Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and a lung infection for around three years. He had been bedridden for the last six months and was admitted to hospital four days before his death. His condition deteriorated on Saturday afternoon. His last rites are scheduled to be performed on November 15 in his native village of Ravinuthala, near Ongole in Andhra Pradesh’s Prakasam district.
From Theatre to a Career Spanning Over 600 Films
Born on June 8, 1946, in Ravinuthala village, Giri Babu developed an interest in acting during his childhood and began his journey as a theatre artiste. He eventually moved towards the Telugu film industry, making his screen debut with Jagame Maya in 1973. Although his early career included leading roles, he gradually established himself as a versatile performer, particularly through his portrayals of antagonists and supporting characters.
Over the years, Giri Babu demonstrated considerable range, moving between villainous, comic and character roles. His filmography includes notable productions such as Kurukshetram, Jyothi, Mallepoovu, Pasivadi Pranam, Hello Brother, Little Soldiers, Ninne Pelladata, Khadgam and Athadu. He also worked with prominent actors, including N. T. Rama Rao, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Krishna, Chiranjeevi, Mohan Babu and Nandamuri Balakrishna.
His contribution to cinema extended beyond acting. Giri Babu ventured into film production in 1977 with Devathalara Deevinchandi. He subsequently produced films including Simha Garjana and Merupu Daadi. He also directed films such as Ranarangam (1985), Indrajith (1990) and Nee Sukhame Ne Korukunna (2008). His final reported film appearance was in the 2023 family drama Anni Manchi Sakunamule, directed by B. V. Nandini Reddy.
Film Industry Mourns the Veteran Actor
News of Giri Babu’s death prompted tributes from several prominent figures in the Telugu film industry. Actor Chiranjeevi expressed shock over his passing, remembering his contributions as an actor, producer and director. He described the loss as irreparable and extended his condolences to the actor’s family and admirers.
Actor Mohan Babu recalled his close personal association with Giri Babu, revealing that the two had shared accommodation during their early struggling days in Madras. He remembered their friendship and their subsequent collaborations in films. Nandamuri Balakrishna also paid tribute, recalling working with the veteran actor early in his own career, particularly in Annadammula Anubandham.
Giri Babu is survived by his sons Raghu Babu and Bose Babu, both of whom pursued careers in cinema, and a daughter. Raghu Babu went on to establish himself as a popular comedian and character actor in Telugu films.
With a filmography spanning approximately 600 productions, Giri Babu leaves behind a substantial body of work that reflects his versatility and enduring association with Telugu cinema.
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