K. Raghavendra Rao with Sridevi over the years: 24 films

 K. Raghavendra Rao turns 84 today - an early cheerleader and supporter of Sridevi. 

Veteran Telugu filmmaker K. Raghavendra Rao, who directed Sridevi in 24 films and played a pivotal role in shaping her stardom (including casting her opposite N.T. Rama Rao in the blockbuster Vetagadu), shared a deeply emotional and poignant reflection on his life and career with his protegee, the great Sridevi, following her passing. Rao expressed deep sorrow over her sudden demise, noting that he had spoken to her just prior regarding her daughter’s debut film, Dhadak, and planned to meet her in Hyderabad. He emotionally remarked on the tragedy of her passing, stating that no one should have to endure the kind of sudden and heartbreaking end she faced. 

In subsequent interviews, Rao revealed that during one of her promotional visits for Mom, Sridevi had touched his feet and expressed a desire to collaborate with him on a 25th film together, a milestone project that sadly never materialised due to her untimely death. 

Remembering her early years in the industry, Rao frequently recounted watching her grow from a dedicated child artist, recollecting an incident on a set where she narrowly escaped injury after being hit by a car, into a focused, highly disciplined professional who was completely a "director's actor".