In a shocking case of familial violence, 86-year-old industrialist V.C. Janardhan Rao, chairman and managing director of the Veljan Group of Companies, was brutally murdered at his residence in Somajiguda. The accused, his 28-year-old grandson Keerthi Teja, allegedly stabbed him multiple times following a heated argument over property distribution. The incident, which took place on the night of February 6, came to light after police arrested Teja on February 8.
According to investigating officers from the Panjagutta police station, the attack was triggered by a dispute regarding Rao&rsquo;s assets. Teja, who had recently returned to Hyderabad after completing his master's degree in the United States, was reportedly dissatisfied with his share in the family inheritance.
Property Dispute Turns Deadly
Sources close to the investigation reveal that Rao had recently appointed his eldest daughter&rsquo;s son as the director of Veljan Group, while allotting shares worth Rs. 4 crores to Teja, son of his daughter Sarojini Devi. Teja, however, was allegedly unhappy with this arrangement and felt sidelined in the family business. The resentment culminated in a confrontation on February 6, when Teja and his mother visited Rao at his residence.
The altercation escalated when Teja accused his grandfather of favoritism and neglect. While his mother momentarily left the room to get coffee, Teja reportedly brandished a knife and launched a frenzied attack on Rao. Reports indicate that the industrialist was stabbed 73 times, leading to his immediate death.
Mother Injured Trying to Intervene
As the horrifying assault unfolded, Sarojini Devi attempted to intervene but was also attacked by her son. She sustained four stab wounds before managing to escape and seek help. She was later admitted to a hospital, where she is receiving treatment.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Following the gruesome incident, police were alerted and launched an investigation. Based on the evidence and witness statements, Teja was taken into custody on February 8. A case of murder has been registered against him, and authorities are conducting further inquiries to establish the full sequence of events.
While initial reports suggested that the victim was stabbed over 70 times, police have stated that the exact number of wounds will be confirmed through the post-mortem examination (PME) report.
Legacy of V.C. Janardhan Rao
Rao was a well-respected industrialist known for his contributions to the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Since its establishment in 1965, Veljan Group has been a leading provider of hydraulic and pneumatic solutions across industries such as shipbuilding, energy, and mobile automation. Beyond his business success, Rao was also known for his philanthropic efforts, having made significant donations to institutions like the Government General Hospital in Eluru and the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD).
The brutal killing of a business stalwart has sent shockwaves through Hyderabad&rsquo;s industrial circles. The case continues to be closely followed as authorities delve deeper into the underlying factors that led to this tragic incident.
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Industrialist V C Janardhan Rao and grandson Keerthi Teja (image source: social media)

Business tycoon V.C. Janardhan Rao stabbed to death by grandson over property dispute

Industrialist V.C. Janardhan Rao Murdered by Grandson

Business tycoon V.C. Janardhan Rao stabbed to death by grandson over property dispute

February 9, 2025 | 18:31 IST