(Deleting reference to Phalke award in opening sentence)

Hyderabad, Mar 26 (UNI) Noted Telugu film producer Dukkipati Madhusudhana Rao died at a private hospital in the city today.

He was 90. He is survived by a son and two daughters.

Mr Rao, who was suffering from pneumonia for the past one week, had produced more than 22 Telugu films, including 'Velugu Needalu and 'Dr Chakrvarthi.' He had introduced Dadasaheb Palke awardee Akkineni Nageswara Rao and Ms Waheeda Rahman to the film industry by casting them roles in his films. He produced movies under the banner of 'Annapurna pictures.' The mortal remains of Mr Rao would be laid to rest tomorrow.

Union Minister of State T Subbirami Reddy, several Telugu filmstars and producers visited the house of Mr Rao and paid floral tributes.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy expressed deep shock and grief over the demise of the veteran film producer.

In a condolence message here, Dr Reddy recalled the yeomen services rendered by Mr Rao to the Telugu film industry for more than half a century.

His death was a great loss to the Telugu film industry, who left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry with his artistic excellence, he said.

State Information and Public Relations Minister Mohd Ali Shabbir and Sports, Culture and Cinematography Minister M Satyanarayana also expressed deep sorrow over the death of Mr Rao.

They conveyed their heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the members of the bereaved family.

UNI AP ROY MSJ KN1631