N C Gundu Rao
Credit: DH Photo
Bengaluru: Veteran journalist and former associate editor of Deccan Herald, N C Gundu Rao (78), passed away in Bengaluru on Thursday.
He had been unwell for the past few days and breathed his last around 6 pm at his daughter’s residence, according to family members.
Rao began his career with DH as a proofreader and rose through the ranks to become the newspaper’s associate editor, steering newsroom operations for nearly a decade. In his nearly 35-year-long association with DH, he held several key positions, including that of chief reporter.
A voracious reader and incisive writer, Rao was known for his sharp and critical commentary on Karnataka’s politics and social issues through his fortnightly column in DH, which he wrote from 1992 until his retirement in 2005. He also had a deep knowledge of Kannada cinema and reviewed hundreds of films during his career.
After retiring, Rao led a quiet and contented life in his hometown of Shivamogga. He is survived by his wife Usha and daughters, Sapna and Sahyadri. The last rites will be held in Bengaluru on Friday.