Veteran actress, singer, and producer Krishnaveni, a pioneer in Telugu cinema, passed away on February 16 at 99 due to illness. Her remarkable contributions to the industry span decades, making her a significant figure in Indian cinema history.

Born on December 24, 1924, in Pangidi village, West Godavari district, Krishnaveni’s passion for drama was evident from childhood. Director C. Pullaiah discovered her talent at just ten years old, casting her in Anasuya. She gained immense popularity through films like Lakshmamma, Gollabhama, and Tirugabatu, showcasing her versatility in both lead and character roles. She also lent her voice for songs in her films, even singing playback for actress Anjali Devi in *Keelugurram*.

Krishnaveni's career changed after her marriage to director-producer Mirzapuram Raja in 1940. She respected his wishes and acted only in films produced under their banner, Shobhanachala Studios, and later co-managed the studio’s affairs.

Krishnaveni's contributions as a producer were groundbreaking—she introduced legendary actor N.T. Rama Rao to the silver screen with Mana Desam (1949) and played a crucial role in launching music directors Ghantasala and Ramesh Naidu, as well as singers P. Leela and Jikki. She also produced Bhakta Prahlada in the year 1942.

Her last film as an actress was Sahasam, while her final production was Dampatyam in 1957. Even after retiring from films, Krishnaveni’s legacy endured, with her daughter Anuradha Devi continuing the family’s cinematic tradition by producing several successful films.

Recognizing her immense contribution to Telugu cinema, the Andhra Pradesh government honored her with the prestigious Raghupathi Venkaiah Naidu Award.