When Giri Babu helped Chiranjeevi marry Surekha Konidela. How veteran actor won Allu Ramalingaiah's trust and vouched for megastar as his future son-in-law

The death of veteran Telugu actor Giri Babu has left the Telugu film industry mourning the loss of one of its familiar faces. He passed away on Saturday at the age of 80. Known for his work as an actor, producer and director, Giri Babu made a huge contribution to Telugu cinema over several decades. Several industry members, including Chiranjeevi, paid tribute to the late actor.

The megastar recalled his contribution to the film industry in an emotional social media post. But do you know Giri Babu also shared a special connection with Chiranjeevi's family? He once played an important role in the actor's marriage to Surekha Konidela.

How Giri Babu helped Chiranjeevi marry Surekha Konidela

When Allu Ramalingaiah was looking for a suitable match for his daughter Surekha, he was also eyeing Chiranjeevi. The megastar was a young actor then, who was steadily carving his own niche in Telugu cinema. Allu Ramalingaiah was said to be interested in knowing more about the actor and his future prospects before taking the marriage proposal forward.


Allu Ramalingaiah also met senior actors, including Giri Babu, who has also acted with Chiranjeevi, to take their opinion. Giri Babu knew about Chiranjeevi’s performances, his acting skills, dancing skills and dedication toward his work.

In an interview cited by Asianet News Telugu, Giri Babu recalled how he assured Allu Ramalingaiah about Chiranjeevi. He reportedly told him, "Look at Chiranjeevi's acting style and dance skills; he will become the number 1 hero soon. You can close your eyes and give your daughter in marriage to him."

His recommendation helped strengthen Allu Ramalingaiah's confidence in Chiranjeevi. The actor eventually married Surekha, bringing the two families together.

Chiranjeevi pays tribute to Giri Babu

Following Giri Babu's demise, Chiranjeevi shared an emotional message remembering the veteran actor and his contribution to the industry. He expressed shock over the news of his death.

Taking to X, he wrote, "Through his distinctive acting and unique style, Giribabu’s contributions to the Telugu film industry as an actor, producer, and director across a wide range of films will be remembered forever. His passing is an irreparable loss to the Telugu film industry. Praying to God to grant peace to his sacred soul... I extend my deepest condolences to his family members and fans."

According to ANI report, Giri Babu passed away while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Kondapur, Hyderabad.

Giri Babu's film career and family

Giri Babu began his acting career with the 1973 Telugu film Jagame Maya. He initially became known for playing negative characters but gradually explored different roles, including lead parts and supporting characters. Over the years, he became a familiar presence in Telugu films.

Apart from acting, he also ventured into film production and direction. Some of the films produced by him include Simha Garjana, Merupudadi and Indrajith. As a director, he was associated with projects such as Ranarangam, Indrajith and Nee Sukhame Ne Korukunna. His last screen appearance was in the 2023 Telugu film Anni Manchi Sakunamule.

On the personal front, Giri Babu lost his wife in 2016 following an illness. He is survived by his two sons, Bose Babu and popular Telugu actor and comedian Raghu Babu.