Puri Jagannadh’s Mother Ammaji Dies at 96; Granddaughter Pavithra Puri Pens Heartfelt Tribute
Telugu filmmaker Puri Jagannadh's mother, Smt. Laxmi Narasamma, affectionately known as Ammaji, has passed away at the age of 96 on July 25, 2026. His daughter, Pavithra Puri, shared a heartfelt emotional note on Instagram, leading to an outpouring of condolences from the industry.
The Telugu film industry is steeped in sorrow following the demise of Smt. Laxmi Narasamma, mother to celebrated director Puri Jagannadh. Fondly known as Ammaji, she breathed her last on July 25, 2026, at the remarkable age of 96. The news of her passing emerged after Puri Jagannadh's daughter, Pavithra Puri, shared a deeply emotional tribute on social media, expressing her grief and cherished memories with her grandmother. S Janaki Dies: Legendary Playback Singer, the ‘Nightingale of South India’ Passes Away at 88.
Puri Jagannadh's Mother Ammaji No More
Ammaji, whose full name was Laxmi Narasamma, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The cause of her demise has not been publicly disclosed by the family, who have maintained privacy during this difficult time. However, the outpouring of condolences from colleagues, fans, and well-wishers quickly followed Pavithra Puri's heartfelt post.
Pavithra Puri took to her Instagram Story to pen a touching note, reflecting on the deep bond she shared with her grandmother. Her emotional tribute resonated widely across social media, offering a glimpse into Ammaji's loving presence in their lives. "Who will call me 'Chinnathalli' now? Who will kiss me so lovingly? I wish I could spend just one more day with you. I would give you the biggest hug, just like I did on your 96th birthday. I miss you, Grandma," Pavithra wrote, expressing her profound sadness and longing. Ammaji was known for her unconditional love, wisdom, and strength, and her passing has left a void in the family.
Pavithra Puri Remembers Her Grandmother Ammaji After Her PassingÂ
Puri Jagannadh's Work Front
Amidst this personal loss, Puri Jagannadh remains active on the professional front with his highly anticipated upcoming project, SlumDog: 33 Temple Road. The action entertainer features an impressive cast including Vijay Sethupathi and Tabu in leading roles, alongside Samyuktha, Duniya Vijay Kumar, Brahmanandam, and VTV Ganesh. Puri Sethupathi Titled ‘Slumdog – 33 Temple Road’: Vijay Sethupathi’s Swag-Filled Killer FIRST Look Unveiled on His 48th Birthday (View Poster).
The film, which recently completed its post-production and re-recording works, is expected to offer a sensational musical experience with compositions by Harshavardhan Rameshwar. Produced by Puri Jagannadh, Charmme Kaur, and JB Narayan Rao Kondrolla under the banner of Puri Connects, Slum Dog 33: Temple Road is slated for a theatrical release on July 31, 2026, across five languages: Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 27, 2026 10:36 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
