October 29 turned a 'Black Friday' for Kannada Film Industry (KFI) with the untimely demise of Power Star Puneeth Rajkumar earlier today. As dubbed by the media and fans, Power Star Puneeth, son of Kannada Cinema legend Rajkumar, is one of the most popular actors from the Sandalwood with a huge fan base. Appu was known for his simplicity and humility.
Condolences poured in for the actor from different quarters including PM Narendra Modi and several other political leaders including Rahul Gandhi. The entire Indian film industry mourned the death of the Kannada star and many even thronged his residence to pay their tributes. The list of actors included KGF's Yash and Kiccha Sudeep.
Several photos and videos are streaming on social media showing the queue of stars at Puneeth's residence.
The 46-year-old actor was working out in a gym when he suffered a heart attack and was rushed to Vikram Hospital in Bengaluru where he breathed his last.
Yash Vs Puneeth
Both Yash and Puneeth are renowned figures of KFI. Though there is no difference between the duo, a few days back, many fans of the Rocking Star engaged in a banter and were seen trolling the Power Star on social media comparing the both. The trolls even turned uglier with time.
Puneeth, who is loved by his fans for philanthropic activities, shared a good bond with Yash and so did the Rocking Star.
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A few days back, the duo was seen sharing the same stage and shaking a leg during the promotions of Bhajarangi 2 starring Puneeth's brother Shiva Rajkumar. Before the trio performed a few steps on the stage, Yash praised Puneeth stating him as an inspiration for many.
"One has special place for people who treat you well when you are nothing," Yash said addressing Puneeth.
Puneeth had also congratulated Yash for becoming an all-India star with KGF Chapter 1 and gave him a warm hug.
Now, fans are reminiscing the memorable moment.
Many have also shared several other videos in which the duo was captured sharing a candid moment.
Meanwhile, fans are mourning the irreparable loss. Thousands of his admirers thronged his residence to get the last glimpse of their icon. Later, Kanteerava Stadium got crowded with mourning fans, where the mortal remains of the late actor will be kept for last respect.
Puneeth Keeps His Promise
Puneeth had pledged for donating his eyes and he did that. The late actor's elder brother Raghavendra Rajkumar called Dr Bhujanga Shetty, Director Narayana Nethralaya to collect his eyes.
"Many people pledge their eyes and their family forget at the time of death. But, Puneeth's family is different. His father, legend of Kannada film industry Dr Rajkumar always reminded me to take his eyes when he passed away. Later, the family reminded me when his wife Parvathamma Rajkumar breathed her last. Today (Friday) again I got a call from his family to collect eyes within no time," he explained.
Puneeth A Philanthropic
It is not just about donating eyes or praising the newcomers. Puneeth has set an example in many fields.
Puneeth had donated Rs 50 lakh to the Karnataka government during Covid crisis. Puneeth was supporting 16 old age homes and 19 'goshalas'. Thousands of girl students were supported through his 'Shakthidhama' organisation. But, never ever did Puneeth speak about his philanthropic activities.
Puneeth's acting career spanned over 45 years as he made his debut as a toddler. He has acted in 13 films as a child artiste. 'Bettada Hoovu' in 1985 fetched him a National award as a child artiste. He won best child artiste award for his acting in 'Chalisuva Modagalu' and 'Eradu Kanasu'.
He made his debut as a full-fledged hero with 'Appu' in 2002. Since then, he had acted in 29 movies. His latest release was 'Yuvaratnaa' which hit theatres in April earlier this year. His last movie was 'James'. His documentary made by filmmaker Amoghavarsha of 'Wild Karnataka' fame shot underwater was all set to release on November 1.
He won two state awards for best actor and won five FilmFare awards. He started his production house Puneeth Rajkumar Films in 2019 and produced movies of Danish Sait and others. He was a successful television presenter for Kannada version of 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'.