A far-sighted academician, an analytical thinker, a philosopher and mentor, a dynamic leader, a man of action, high achiever and a dear friend – Sri. U.V.Chalapati Rao of Gangadhar Tutorials fame moved on to his heavenly abode on Feb 19th, 2017.

He started his career at St. Joseph’s college and became the Head of Physics Department in 1968. His thirst to guide aspiring medicos and engineers led him to pioneer the opening of Gangadhar Tutorials(GT) in Visakhapatnam. Started in 1980, GT became the destination of many aspirational “IIT”ians in and around Vizag. He was the torch bearer for JEE coaching in all of Andhra Pradesh. Under his able teaching and guidance, scores of students had better access to many premier medical and engineering institutions. He stressed the need to possess single-minded devotion towards academic pursuits and to settle for nothing but the best. During the 22 years of GT, he touched thousands of lives, both girls and boys alike. A natural philosopher and an education scientist, he could observe the spark in students and ignite it to help them reach high levels of academic excellence and realize their full potential. His unique methodology of training a student encompassed not just transfer of the subject matter alone, but helped imbibe single minded dedication, analytical clarity and a deep tenacity to approach a problem.

He was a versatile sportsman and a champion in billiards and snooker. A keen music lover and an enthusiast of stringed instruments, he carried a hum in everything he did. Photography being his hobby, he even started a Photography club while at St. Joseph’s.

Throughout his saga of success, his wife Mrs. U.S. Rajyalakshmi lent strong support – herself being an able administrator. Their daughters, Kiran and Pawan, both IITians, have gone on to build successful careers and happy families. Sri. Chalapati Rao garu proved to be a successful Parent, Teacher, Academician, Guide and Mentor to many teachers and students.

 

The Late Mayor Sri. D.V. Subba Rao gave him the title "VISAKHA RATNA"