Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Tollywood Mourns: Fish Venkat, Beloved Telugu Actor and Comedian, Passes Away at 53 Due to Kidney Failure

Popular Telugu comedian and supporting actor Fish Venkat died of kidney failure complications at age 53. The actor passed away on Friday at a private hospital in Hyderabad, it was reported. Though the medical staff tried everything and the family made emotional appeals, a matching kidney donor could not be arranged in time.

A Remarkable Career in Telugu Cinema
Born Venkat Raj, the actor was lovingly referred to as “Fish Venkat,” a nickname that came after a memorable scene at a fish market. The scene became legendary, and it made his stage name stick in fans’ minds. With more than two decades of acting under his belt, Venkat performed in more than 100 films and was well-loved for infusing his characters with a robust Telangana flavor.

He became popular for his comedic timing and distinctive screen presence in films such as Brindaavanam, Aadi, King, Naayak, Gabbar Singh, Adhurs, and DJ Tillu. Most recently, he was seen in the 2023 film Narakasura as Constable Venkat. The action-comedy movie was directed by Sebastian Noah Acosta Jr and had Rakshit Atluri, Nassar, and Aparna Janardanan in it.

fish venkat_pic courtesy x
Fish Venkat_Pic Courtesy X

Clarification on Support and Tributes
Whereas there were some social media updates that erroneously insinuated actor Prabhas had provided financial help when Venkat was ill, the family cleared these reports as frauds. Credible assistance was rendered by celebrities such as Pawan Kalyan, Vishwak Sen, and a Telangana government minister.

Legacy of Laughter
Fish Venkat’s unique style and sense of humor endeared him to audiences, particularly when playing roles that were set in Telangana culture. Telugu cinema will look back fondly at the contributions he made, and his loss creates a gap in the comic talent pool in the industry. Fans and co-stars alike continue to send in their tributes, celebrating the life of a great entertainer.

RELATED ARTICLES

Latest