Ramu Rathod Biography, Age, Relationship, Family, Career, Net Worth

Who is Ramu Rathod?

Ramu Rathod is an Indian folk artist hailing from a tribal Banjara community in Telangana. Starting his journey from small local performances, he has become a digital folk music star, blending tradition with modern artistry. His unique storytelling, rhythmic beats, and deep-rooted cultural influence have made him a voice for rural Telangana.

His breakout song, “Ranu Bombayi Ki Ranu”, achieved over 516 million views online, a remarkable feat for an independent folk musician. Today, he stands as a symbol of hope for many aspiring artists from rural areas.

Ramu Rathod Early Life

Ramu Rathod was born in Gopalpur Tanda, a small village in the Bhoothpur mandal of Mahabubnagar district, Telangana.
Coming from a Banjara–Lambadi tribal family, he is the youngest of five siblings. Growing up, he was surrounded by folk traditions, vibrant festivals, and community gatherings, which naturally shaped his passion for music.

During his childhood, Ramu was inspired by legendary folk artists like Gorati Venkanna and revolutionary performers from the Gaddar movement. He often sang at local school events and community functions, where his powerful voice began to stand out.

Despite financial struggles, his family supported his dreams, which eventually led him to pursue music professionally.

Ramu Rathod Education

Ramu Rathod’s formal education was modest, as his focus was always on folk singing and performance. While completing basic schooling in his village, he simultaneously trained himself by observing local musicians and participating in cultural festivals.
Although he did not have access to professional music training, his self-taught journey and dedication helped him master rhythm, lyrics, and stage presence.

Ramu Rathod Family

• Parents: Belong to the Banjara–Lambadi tribal community; farmers by profession.
• Siblings: Four elder siblings who encouraged his musical ambitions.
• Marital Status: Currently unmarried and focused on his career.
• Support System: Ramu often credits his family and village elders for believing in his talent, even when resources were limited.
  

Ramu Rathod Career

Ramu’s career is a true example of turning passion into success against all odds.

Early Struggles

He began singing at local gatherings, school programs, and small village festivals. With limited opportunities and resources, he initially performed for free, gaining confidence and experience.

Breakthrough Moment

His life changed with the release of “Ranu Bombayi Ki Ranu”, a folk track produced on a budget of ₹5 lakh.
The song went viral on YouTube, amassing 516 million+ views and generating over ₹1 crore in revenue, proving the massive reach of folk music in the digital era.
This song also reached an international audience when it was showcased at the Miss World stage, a historic moment for Banjara folk art.

Other Hit Songs

Following the success of his debut viral hit, Ramu released several other popular tracks:

• “Sommasilli Pothunnave O Chinni Ramulamma”
• “Sommasilli Pothunnave Part 2”
• “Ringu Ringula Juttudhana”
• “Yedikelli Vachinaave”
• “Pacha Bottu Bavaayo”

These songs cemented his position as a leading folk singer in Telangana.

Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9

In 2025, Ramu Rathod entered the reality TV show Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9. His vibrant personality, grounded nature, and musical talent quickly made him a fan favorite.
His participation also gave a national platform to Telangana’s folk traditions.

Ramu Rathod’s Personal Life

Ramu Rathod comes from a humble Banjara–Lambadi tribal family in Gopalpur Tanda, Bhoothpur mandal, Mahabubnagar district, Telangana. He is the youngest of five siblings and grew up in a culturally vibrant environment where folk music, dance, and storytelling were an integral part of everyday life.

From a young age, Ramu was deeply connected to the cultural traditions of his community, often participating in festivals and gatherings. His natural singing talent was recognized early, and his family encouraged him to pursue music despite limited financial resources.

Ramu is currently unmarried and entirely focused on his career and spreading Telangana’s folk music globally. He maintains a simple lifestyle, staying close to his roots even after achieving viral fame and success.

Even after becoming a public figure, Ramu remains deeply spiritual and committed to uplifting young talents from rural areas, often mentoring budding folk singers.

Controversy

While Ramu Rathod has gained immense popularity, his journey has not been without challenges and controversies.

1. Criticism for Song Lyrics

Some of Ramu’s songs, especially “Ranu Bombayi Ki Ranu”, received criticism for their bold lyrics and dance visuals. Certain conservative groups claimed that the song did not fully represent the traditional values of the Banjara–Lambadi community.
However, Ramu clarified in interviews that he intended to modernize folk music and make it appealing to younger audiences, not to disrespect cultural sentiments.

2. Bigg Boss Telugu 9 Entry Debate

When Ramu was announced as a contestant on Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9, there was mixed public reaction.

• Some fans praised him for bringing folk culture to a mainstream reality show.
• Others criticized his decision, arguing that reality TV might distract him from his artistic path.

Ramu addressed the issue by saying that his appearance on Bigg Boss was a strategic move to promote Telangana’s folk heritage to a wider audience.

3. Viral Video Misunderstanding

At the peak of his song’s viral success, a misleading video clip circulated on social media, falsely claiming that Ramu had made controversial remarks about other artists.
He quickly released an official statement clarifying the matter, stating that the clip was edited out of context and reaffirming his respect for all fellow musicians.

Ramu Rathod Social Media Presence

Ramu Rathod actively engages with his audience through social media, sharing updates about his songs, performances, and personal journey.

Ramu Rathod Net Worth

Ramu Rathod Physical Appearance

Interesting Facts About Ramu Rathod

1. Humble Beginnings:
   Ramu Rathod comes from Gopalpur Tanda, a small tribal village in Telangana, and is the youngest of five siblings in a Banjara–Lambadi family.
2. Historic Viral Song:
   His song “Ranu Bombayi Ki Ranu” not only went viral with 516 million+ views but was also performed at the Miss World stage, a first for any Telangana folk artist.
3. Budget-to-Boom Success:
   The song was produced on a modest ₹5 lakh budget but earned over ₹1 crore, proving the massive commercial potential of folk music.
4. Self-Taught Musician:
   Ramu never received formal music training; he taught himself to sing and compose by observing local artists and participating in village festivals.
5. Folk Culture Ambassador:
   Through his music, Ramu promotes the rich heritage of Telangana’s Banjara community, blending traditional rhythms with modern elements.
6. Bigg Boss Telugu Fame:
   In 2025, Ramu entered Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9, using the platform to showcase his music and bring Telangana’s folk culture to a national audience.
7. Socially Conscious Lyrics:
   Many of his songs, while upbeat and danceable, carry subtle messages about social issues and rural life, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking.
8. Other Hit Songs:
   Apart from his viral track, Ramu is known for other popular songs like “Sommasilli Pothunnave O Chinni Ramulamma”, “Ringu Ringula Juttudhana”, and “Pacha Bottu Bavaayo”.
9. Cultural Pride:
   Even after achieving fame, Ramu continues to wear traditional Banjara attire during performances, proudly representing his roots.
10. Inspiration for Rural Artists:
    Ramu’s journey from a small village to a digital star serves as motivation for aspiring folk singers across India, proving that talent can shine regardless of background.

FAQs About Ramu Rathod

Q1. Who is Ramu Rathod?
Ramu Rathod is a folk singer from Telangana, best known for his viral song “Ranu Bombayi Ki Ranu”.

Q2. Where is Ramu Rathod from?
He hails from Gopalpur Tanda, Mahabubnagar district, Telangana.

Q3. What made Ramu Rathod famous?
His song “Ranu Bombayi Ki Ranu” went viral, gaining over 516 million views.

Q4. What is Ramu Rathod’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is ₹1.5 – ₹2 Crore.

Q5. Is Ramu Rathod married?
No, he is currently unmarried.

Q6. Which reality show is Ramu Rathod a part of?
He is a contestant on Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9.

Q7. What is his height?
Ramu Rathod is 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall.

Q8. Which community does Ramu Rathod belong to?
He belongs to the Banjara–Lambadi tribal community.

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