Padma Shri Awardee And Legendary Mimicry Artist Nerella Venumadhav Passes Away At The Age Of 85

Legendary mimicry artist and Padma Shri Awardee Nerella Venumadhav passed away on Tuesday at his residence Hanamkonda at the age of 85. The artist was unwell for some time and was on the ventilator while undergoing the treatment. Born in Warangal in the year 1932, Nerella started his career at the young age of 16. He was the first Indian mimicry artist to perform at the UN headquarters. In 1971, CM of Andhra Pradesh P. V. Narasimha Rao nominated Nerella Venumadhav as the member of Legislative Council.

He introduced the subject of Mimicry in Telugu University’s curriculum. Nerella wrote the entire syllabus of it and even taught in the first two years. Recently, the government issued a postal stamp under his name for his contribution towards arts. Nerella Venumadhav is survived by his wife and his two daughters and two sons. Apart from his fans and admirers, politicians like K Chandrasekhar Rao and YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed their grief on his death.  CM Rao has ordered that he will be given a state funeral for his outstanding achievement and contribution in the field of art.

The renowned artist was popular for his unique way of singing and mimicking. Apart from Padma Shri Nerella garnered many accolades and will be always remembered for his unique talent among the masses.