This actor, who worked in 300 films, gave all his wealth to his caretaker despite having children, died a painful death, his name is…

The world of cinema dazzles with glamour and stardom, yet behind the silver screen, many actors endure hardships unseen by the public. One such story is that of Telugu actor Ranganath, whose journey from a railway ticket collector to a celebrated hero and character artist captivated audiences, but whose personal life ended in tragedy.

Born as Tirumala Sundara Sri Ranganath, he started his career with the India(BHARAT)n Railways. However, driven by a passion for acting from childhood, he left his secure job and ventured into films. In 1974, he made his debut as a hero in the movie Chandana, soon becoming a familiar face in Telugu cinema.

From leading man to beloved character artist

Ranganath starred in numerous films as a hero, including hits like Manmadhudu, Nizam, Adavi Ramudu, Devarai, and Gopal Gopal. His performances earned critical acclaim and a loyal fan following. Over time, he transitioned into playing villains and character roles, appearing in over 300 films across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi cinema. In addition to films, he also acted in popular TV serials like Shanti Nivasam and Mogli Rekulu.

Personal life and struggles

Ranganath’s personal life was marked by challenges. He was a devoted husband, caring for his wife Chaitanya for 15 years after she suffered an accident. Despite his fame, financial hardships grew in his later years, forcing him to live in a modest rented home costing only Rs 5,000 a month.

His family, including two daughters and a son, shared that his declining mental health and loneliness weighed heavily on him. In 2015, he tragically took his own life at his Gandhinagar residence, leaving behind a handwritten note saying, “Do not trouble Meenakshi,” referring to their long-time caretaker.

Legacy beyond struggles

Ranganath’s son, Nagendra Kumar, clarified that their family ensured Meenakshi was financially supported, appreciating her years of dedication to their parents. The actor’s tragic end due to isolation and financial strain remains a painful chapter for fans of Telugu cinema, reminding us that fame does not always shield one from life’s harsh realities.

Highlights:

1. Ranganath acted in over 300 films and several TV serials, leaving a lasting mark on Telugu cinema.
2. Despite stardom, his final years were marred by financial difficulties and loneliness.
3. His devotion to family and caretakers remained unwavering until his tragic end.