Veteran Telugu actor Venkat Raj passes away at 53. Why was he known as 'Fish Venkat'?

Renowned Telugu actor and comedian Fish Venkat, whose real name was Venkat Raj, passed away at the age of 53 on a somber Friday in Hyderabad. As reported by 123 Telugu, Venkat had been struggling with severe kidney issues for several months. His condition progressively declined, leading to his admission into intensive care, where he was placed on both dialysis and ventilator support. Medical professionals had urged an immediate kidney transplant, but despite all interventions, his health continued to deteriorate, eventually leading to his death due to complications from kidney failure.

An Icon of Telugu Comedy and Character Acting

Fish Venkat’s name became synonymous with sharp comedic timing and expressive supporting roles across Telugu cinema. His career took flight under the mentorship of the late director Dasari Narayana Rao, who introduced him in the film Sammakka Sarakka. Since then, Venkat has carved out a lasting niche in over 100 movies. His memorable roles in major productions such as Kushi, Bunny, Adhurs, Gabbar Singh, Dhee, Mirapakay, DJ Tillu, Slum Dog Husband, and Coffee with a Killer earned him both a dedicated fan following and respect from his peers. His on-screen presence became a vital component of many successful films, blending humor and antagonism effortlessly.

A Family’s Plea and the Harsh Reality of Scams

As Venkat’s health crisis intensified, his daughter Shravanthi stepped forward publicly in a heartfelt appeal for monetary assistance. The cost of the required transplant had been pegged at approximately Rs 50 lakh. Unfortunately, amid the emotional upheaval, the family became victims of deceit. According to Suman TV, they were contacted by an impostor pretending to be an assistant of actor Prabhas. The family later clarified that the call was fake and that Prabhas had no knowledge of the situation. Contrary to online rumors, no help had arrived from the actor’s side. They stressed they had been answering every call in desperate hope, only to be misled by fraudulent claims.

Support From the Fraternity, But Help Came Too Late

Though misinformation clouded some aspects, a few genuine gestures of support did emerge. Actor Pawan Kalyan stepped forward with a contribution of Rs 2 lakh, while actor Vishwak Sen and a Telangana government minister also extended aid. Still, a compatible kidney donor could not be located in time, and despite these efforts, Fish Venkat’s condition remained critical until the very end.

Remembering His Origins and Screen Identity

Venkat hailed from Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh. His screen name, 'Fish Venkat,' was affectionately derived from the Telangana dialect he employed in his performances—reminiscent of coastal fishermen, which became his comedic hallmark. Known for his versatility, he excelled in both humorous and antagonist roles, bringing a grounded authenticity to his characters.

A Recent Career Resurgence

Even during recent years, Venkat’s screen journey had not waned. He appeared in the Aha platform thriller Coffee with a Killer and earned applause for his role alongside Siddhu Jonnalagadda in Maa Vintha Gaadha Vinuma and DJ Tillu, which were released during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Community in Mourning

Fish Venkat is survived by his wife and three children. His passing adds to the grief that has recently shrouded the Telugu film industry, following the deaths of legendary actor Kota Srinivasa Rao Garu and Rajagopal Raju, father of Ravi Teja. With his demise, Telugu cinema has lost not just a prolific supporting actor, but a performer whose distinctive voice, humor, and charisma lit up the screen and left audiences in stitches.

The film community and fans continue to mourn a man whose name evoked both laughter and admiration.