Popular Telugu comedian Fish Venkat passed away at the age of 53 on July 18, 2025,
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leaving a deep void in the hearts of Telugu cinema lovers. Known for his unique Telangana accent and comic timing, Fish Venkat – whose real name was Venkat Raj – breathed his last in Hyderabad after prolonged health complications. He had been undergoing treatment for kidney and liver failure and was placed on ventilator support during his final days.
Fish Venkat made his entry into Tollywood with the film Sammakka Sarakka but gained recognition through his performance in the hit movie Kushi. Over the years, he carved a niche for himself by appearing in over 100 films, often playing supporting roles and antagonists with a humorous twist. Some of his most memorable appearances include roles in Bunny, Adhurs, Gabbar Singh, DJ Tillu, and Coffee with a Killer. His dialogue “Okkasari thodakottu chinna” remains a fan favorite to this day.
His health had been deteriorating for several months. He was admitted to an ICU and required regular dialysis. As his condition worsened, his daughter Shravanthi made a public appeal for financial help, revealing that the family needed at least ₹50 lakh for a kidney transplant. Although actors like Pawan Kalyan and Vishwak Sen came forward and donated ₹2 lakh each, it wasn’t enough to facilitate the transplant. There were also rumors about Prabhas offering help, but the family later clarified that the messages were from scammers impersonating the actor.
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The sudden loss of Fish Venkat has sent shockwaves across the Telugu film industry. Fellow actors, filmmakers, and fans flooded social media with tributes, expressing their grief and admiration for the beloved actor. Many praised his down-to-earth nature, remarkable screen presence, and the laughter he brought to audiences over the decades.
Fish Venkat is survived by his wife Suvarna and daughter Shravanthi. The actor’s journey from a supporting artist to a household name in Telugu cinema stands as a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and raw talent. Despite the financial and health struggles he faced in his final days, his contribution to Tollywood remains unmatched.
His legacy lives on through his iconic roles, countless film appearances, and the joy he gave millions of viewers. Fans continue to share his popular movie clips and quotes, keeping his memory alive across social platforms. As the Telugu film community mourns his untimely departure, Fish Venkat will always be remembered as a cherished entertainer whose impact far exceeded the screen.