Mahesh Babu’s older brother Ramesh Babu dies, Chiranjeevi and others offer condolences

Actor Mahesh Babu’s older brother, actor-producer Ramesh Babu died at the age of 56 on Saturday night after a prolonged illness. After the family shared the news of his death on social media late Saturday night, several members of the Telugu film industry offered their condolences.

As per several reports, Ramesh Babu had been battling liver-related ailments for a long time but his death was sudden. The news of his death was confirmed on Twitter by GMB Entertainment, the production company owned by the family. “An official press statement from the Ghattamaneni family over the untimely demise of Shri Ghattamaneni Ramesh Babu garu,” read the tweet.

The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Ghattamaneni Ramesh Babu garu. He will continue to live in our hearts forever.” The family also advised fans and followers to not gather for the funeral and last rites, given the Covid-19 protocols in place. “In light of the current circumstances, we request all our well-wishers to adhere to the Covid-19 norms and avoid gathering at the cremation venue,” the statement further stated.

Mahesh also took to Instagram to remember his brother. Sharing an old picture of Ramesh Babu, he wrote, "If not for you, I would not have been half the man I am today. Thank you for everything you've done for me.

Now just rest.

Ramesh Babu was an actor known for films such as Bazaar Rowdy, Mugguru Kodukulu and others. After his retirement from acting in 1997, he became a producer.

His death was mourned by several members of the film industry. Actor Chiranjeevi tweeted, “My heartfelt condolences to Shri Krishna garu, @urstrulyMahesh and all the family members. May the Almighty give strength to the family to cope with the tragic loss.” Actor Sai Dharam Tej tweeted, “Saddened to know about the untimely passing on of Shri. #GhattamaneniRameshBabu garu.”

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Several others from the industry, including actor Varun Tej, Anil Ravipudi, Ramesh Varma, Gopichand Malineni, and Nithin also offered their condolences to Ramesh Babu’s family.

Mahesh Babu had tested positive for Covid-19 recently and is currently in isolation at home. It is unclear whether he would be able to attend his brother’s last rites.