Veteran Telugu actor Fish Venkat dies at 53 due to kidney failure
Veteran Telugu actor Fish Venkat has passed away at the age of 53 due to kidney failure. Known for his memorable comic roles and supporting characters, his untimely demise has left the industry and fans grieving the loss of a beloved talent.
New Delhi: The Telugu film industry was left in mourning on Friday (July 18) as veteran actor Venkat Raj aka Fish Venkat passed away at the age of 53. His demise was confirmed at a private hospital in Hyderabad, where he was receiving treatment for advanced kidney failure.
For nearly nine months, the actor was fighting a difficult health battle following the complete failure of both kidneys. Despite being placed on regular dialysis and undergoing rigorous treatment, his condition took a critical turn in recent weeks. He was eventually placed on a ventilator, but doctors were unable to revive him. His death marked the end of a remarkable journey in Telugu cinema that spanned over two decades.
Who was Fish Venkat?
Venkat Raj rose to prominence with his debut in the 2000 romantic drama Kushi, and over time, he carved a niche for himself with his signature Telangana dialect and standout comic timing. Whether it was a small-time thug or a comic sidekick, his screen presence often left a lasting impression. He was frequently cast in supporting and villainous roles in films such as Aadi, Bunny, Adhurs, Gabbar Singh, and DJ Tillu.
In more recent years, he was seen in projects like Slum Dog Husband, Narakasura, and Coffee with a Killer, continuing to charm audiences despite his declining health.
Behind the scenes, however, his family was facing an uphill battle. His daughter, Sravanthi, had spoken openly about the family’s financial struggles, sharing that a kidney transplant, costing approximately Rs 50 lakh, was urgently needed. "We were unable to proceed due to the lack of a suitable donor,” she had said earlier. Though some monetary support was extended by well-wishers, it sadly wasn’t enough to change the course of his deteriorating health.
Venkat Raj is survived by his wife, Suvarna, and their daughter, Sravanthi. His demise has left a void in the Telugu film industry, especially among fans who admired his relatable screen characters and unfiltered humour.