Damodar Raao

Full biography Damodar Raao

Damodar Raao was an Indian classical and film music composer, who was born on March 9, 1934, in the city of Vijayawada, located in the present-day state of Andhra Pradesh. His father, Sitarama Shastri, was a classical singer and veena player, and Damodar Raao inherited his father's musical genes.

Damodar Raao received his initial musical training from his father, but later on, he moved to Chennai to learn under the legendary music composer, C. R. Subburaman, who was a close friend of his father. Under his tutelage, Damodar Raao learned the intricacies of music composition and became a skilled musician.

In the 1950s, Damodar Raao began his career as a music composer in the Telugu film industry, where he composed music for several films. He is known for his melodious compositions, which had a classical touch and were well-received by the audience.

One of his most popular compositions is the song "Neevu leka veena" from the 1963 Telugu film "Bhakta Prahlada", which was sung by the legendary singer Ghantasala. The song is still considered a classic in Telugu film music.

Damodar Raao's music also had a social message, and he composed songs that addressed issues such as women's empowerment, rural development, and communal harmony.

Overall, Damodar Raao was a gifted music composer who contributed significantly to the Telugu film industry. His music continues to be remembered and cherished by music lovers to this day.