Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad

Hyderabad, Jul 19: Telugu film industry lost one of its beloved actors as Venkat Raj, popularly known as Fish Venkat, passed away on Friday due to kidney failure. He was 53.

A native of Hyderabad, Fish Venkat was known for his unique Telangana accent and flair for comedy and villainy. He had been battling critical health issues for the past nine months due to the failure of both kidneys. Despite undergoing regular dialysis and intensive treatment, his health worsened, and he was placed on a ventilator. He breathed his last at a private hospital in the city.

Venkat made his acting debut in the 2000 hit Kushi and went on to appear in numerous Telugu films like Aadi, Bunny, Adhurs, Gabbar Singh, and DJ Tillu. He became a household name for his comic timing and notable performances in negative roles.

In recent months, his family had appealed for public support as the actor needed a kidney transplant estimated at Rs 50 lakh. Although some financial help was received, the absence of a compatible donor remained a major challenge.

He is survived by his wife Suvarna and daughter Sravanthi, who had been actively seeking help for his treatment. The Telugu film fraternity and his fans have expressed deep grief over the actor's demise.