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Puneeth Rajkumar (17 March 1975 – 29 October 2021) was an acclaimed Indian actor, playback singer, television presenter, and philanthropist who predominantly worked in Kannada cinema. Fondly referred to as "Power Star" by his fans, Puneeth was one of the most celebrated actors in the Kannada film industry and a beloved cultural icon in Karnataka.
Early Life and Family
[modifica]Puneeth Rajkumar was born in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, to the legendary Kannada actor Dr. Rajkumar and Parvathamma Rajkumar. He was the youngest of five siblings and spent his early years in Chennai before the family relocated to Bangalore.
As a child, Puneeth appeared in several Kannada films, often alongside his father, earning a reputation as a talented child artist. His performances in films like Bettada Hoovu (1985), for which he received the National Film Award for Best Child Artist, showcased his early acting prowess.
Career
[modifica]Debut and Stardom
[modifica]Puneeth made his debut as a lead actor with Appu (2002), which became a blockbuster and earned him the nickname "Appu." The movie established him as a bankable star and marked the beginning of a successful career.
Over the years, he delivered several commercially and critically successful films, including:
- Abhi (2003)
- Veera Kannadiga (2004)
- Arasu (2007)
- Raaj — The Showman (2009)
- Jackie (2010)
- Hudugaru (2011)
- Rana Vikrama (2015)
- Raajakumara (2017)
- Yuvarathnaa (2021)
His versatility and natural screen presence earned him widespread acclaim, making him one of the highest-paid actors in Kannada cinema.
Singing and Television
[modifica]Apart from acting, Puneeth was an accomplished playback singer, lending his voice to numerous hit songs in Kannada films. He also ventured into television as the host of the popular reality show Kannadada Kotyadhipati, the Kannada adaptation of Kaun Banega Crorepati.
Philanthropy
[modifica]Puneeth was deeply involved in philanthropic activities, often supporting education for underprivileged children and funding various social causes. He continued the charitable legacy of his father, Dr. Rajkumar, and was admired for his humility and generosity.
Personal Life
[modifica]Puneeth married Ashwini Revanth in 1999, and the couple had two daughters, Drithi and Vanditha. Despite his stardom, he was known for his grounded nature and strong family bonds.
Awards and Recognition
[modifica]Puneeth received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:
- National Film Award for Best Child Artist (Bettada Hoovu, 1985)
- Several Filmfare Awards South for Best Actor
- Multiple SIIMA Awards
His films were celebrated for their mass appeal and meaningful content, often resonating with audiences across generations.
Demise and Legacy
[modifica]On 29 October 2021, Puneeth Rajkumar suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away at the age of 46. His sudden demise sent shockwaves across the nation, and millions of fans mourned the loss of their beloved star.
Puneeth's legacy lives on through his films, his music, and the countless lives he touched. His contributions to Kannada cinema and society remain an enduring inspiration.
Filmography
For a comprehensive list of Puneeth Rajkumar's works, see [Puneeth Rajkumar filmography].
See Also
- Kannada cinema
- Rajkumar family
External Links
- Puneeth Rajkumar on IMDb
- Official Website of Kannada Cinema