Dr Rao was a distinguished historian and epigraphist who devoted his life to the study and preservation of Andhra history, epigraphy, palaeography and numismatics. Through his pioneering research, landmark publications, editing of inscriptions, teaching and guidance of younger scholars, he made an enduring contribution to the understanding of South India's inscriptional heritage.
His Inscriptions of Andhra Pradesh, Studies in Andhra History and Culture and his edition of South Indian Inscriptions, Volume XLII stand as lasting monuments to his scholarship. His work also brought epigraphy closer to students and the wider public.
The Tamil Heritage Trust mourns the loss of an eminent scholar and doyen of the epigraphical community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, students and admirers.
We shall remember Dr C. Somasundara Rao with admiration and deep respect.