Social Media Star ‘Kurchi Tatha’ Passes Away While Walking in Park; Fans in Shock
Hyderabad, March 11: In a tragic turn of events that has left the Telugu social media community in mourning, popular content creator and elderly internet sensation, widely known as “Kurchi Tatha” (Grandfather on a Chair), passed away suddenly while taking an evening stroll at Krishna Kant Park in Hyderabad. The news broke late Tuesday evening, sending shockwaves through his millions of followers and the regional entertainment industry.
A Life Cut Short During a Routine Walk
According to eyewitnesses and local police reports, Kurchi Tatha — whose real name was Ramana Murthy (72) — was walking along the jogging track inside the park when he suddenly collapsed. “He was talking to a few regulars, laughing as usual. Then, without warning, he clutched his chest and fell. By the time we reached him, he was unresponsive,” said Srinivas Rao, a daily visitor to the park.
Bystanders immediately alerted park security, who rushed him to a nearby government hospital. However, doctors declared him dead on arrival. Preliminary medical reports suggest a massive cardiac arrest as the likely cause of death. “He had no prior history of serious illness. His sudden passing is a profound loss for the digital creator community,” said Dr. K. V. Prasad, the attending physician.
The Rise of Kurchi Tatha: From Obscurity to Stardom
Kurchi Tatha was not just a name; he was a phenomenon. The septuagenarian shot to fame two years ago when his grandson posted a video of him sitting on a small plastic stool (kurchi) outside his village home in Nalgonda district, sharing witty observations on modern life. The video went viral, amassing over 10 million views within a week.
What set Kurchi Tatha apart was his authentic, unfiltered wisdom. He spoke about everything from rising vegetable prices to the absurdities of social media culture, all while humorously lamenting about his aching back. His signature line, “Ee kurchi meeda kurchoni, lokam chusthunnaanu” (Sitting on this chair, I watch the world), became a meme template across platforms.
Within months, he had over 2.5 million followers across Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. Brands quickly noticed his appeal. He collaborated with local startups, food chains, and even featured in a government awareness campaign on elderly health.
Industry Reaction: An Irreplaceable Void
The news of his death has triggered an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow content creators. Vijay Deverakonda, who had recently shared a stage with Kurchi Tatha at a college event, posted on X: “Heartbroken. You taught us that age is just a number. Your chair will always be empty, but your words will never fade. Rest easy, Thatha.”
Telugu film personalities, including Mohan Babu and Rajendra Prasad, also expressed their condolences. “He was a bridge between generations. He made our traditions relevant to Gen Z. This is a monumental loss,” said Prasad.
Beyond the Screen: ‘Peddhi’ Completes Censor, Set for Posthumous Release
In a bittersweet development, Kurchi Tatha’s upcoming film ‘Peddhi’ (The Elder) has officially completed its censor formalities and received a U/A certificate. The movie, which marks his debut in a full-length feature role, was scheduled for a theatrical release next month. Producers are currently in discussions with the family regarding a possible premiere, potentially dedicating it to his memory.
“He was ecstatic about the film. He used to say, ‘I’ve lived my life; now let me act it out.’ This film was his dream,” said Suresh Babu, the film’s producer. “We will ensure his legacy lives on through ‘Peddhi’.”
Skoda’s ‘Greatest Ass a Track’ Campaign Hits a Bumpy Road
In a separate, unrelated development, automobile giant Skoda India has come under fire for its latest marketing campaign titled “Greatest Ass a Track.” The campaign, which humorously plays on the double meaning of “ass” (donkey and a term for a seat), was meant to highlight the comfort of Skoda’s new SUV seats.
However, the timing could not have been worse. Following the news of Kurchi Tatha’s death, social media users accused the brand of insensitivity. “They are talking about comfortable chairs when our beloved Kurchi Tatha just passed away? Not cool,” wrote one user on Reddit. Skoda India has since issued a tepid clarification, stating the campaign was pre-scheduled and unrelated to current events.
Also in the News: Another Train Derailment Raises Safety Concerns
Adding to the somber mood of the week, railway authorities reported that yet another passenger train — the Chennai-Howrah Superfast Express — derailed near Vijayawada junction early Wednesday morning. No casualties were reported, but the incident has reignited debates on railway track maintenance. Officials have ordered an inquiry.
A Final Farewell to a Digital Legend
As family members prepare for Kurchi Tatha’s final rites in his native village, fans have organized a candlelight vigil at the very park where he breathed his last. His grandson, Sai Teja, who first filmed him, told The Times of India: “He always said, ‘I want to make people smile until my last breath.’ He did exactly that.”
Kurchi Tatha’s death is a stark reminder that even in the digital age, where fame is often fleeting, some hearts leave a permanent mark. He was not just a social media star; he was a grandfather to millions who never met him, yet felt his warmth through a screen.
Rest in peace, Thatha. Your chair may be empty, but your stories will echo forever.