Politicians Honour Kannada Star Puneeth Rajkumar Five Years On

Five years after his death, Kannada superstar Puneeth Rajkumar was remembered with warm tributes from senior leaders in Karnataka and at the Centre. On Thursday, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and H.D. Kumaraswamy, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka and BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra paid homage to the actor, a recipient of the 'Karnataka Ratna' award, on his fifth death anniversary.

Shivakumar said Puneeth had become a favourite across households in Karnataka, thanks to his innocent smile, humble nature and remarkable talent as an actor. He said the actor would always remain alive in the hearts of lakhs of Kannada-speaking people.

The Chief Minister pointed out that Puneeth, who had won a National Film Award as a child artist, later took Kannada cinema to new heights as a leading actor. Off screen, he said, Puneeth led a simple and dignified life that served as a model for others.

Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi said the actor had created an everlasting place in the hearts of millions of Kannada speakers through his superb performances, simplicity, humanity and public service. Joshi noted that Puneeth began his journey as a child artist before rising to become a major star and a source of pride for the Kannada film industry.

Joshi also said that the actor brought happiness into people's lives not just through acting, but through his contributions to social service, education and healthcare.

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy said Puneeth Rajkumar would stay in the hearts of millions like a sacred love, regardless of how many years pass. He said the actor's personality, natural simplicity and dedicated service to society had made 'Appu' immortal, and he paid respectful homage to this invaluable jewel of the Kannada land on his death anniversary.

Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka said Puneeth Rajkumar, popularly known as 'Appu', entered the Kannada film industry as a child artist and won the love and respect of people across the state. He urged the public to remember the actor's artistic legacy and public service on his death anniversary.

Vijayendra offered a heartfelt tribute as well, saying people would never be able to forget Puneeth and that he would always remain a beloved personality for Kannada speakers. He said Puneeth had built a lasting place in millions of hearts, not only as an exceptional, successful and popular actor, but also through his compassion, simplicity and selfless social service.

Puneeth Rajkumar died on October 29, 2021, at the age of 46. Fondly remembered as 'Appu', he remains among the most cherished figures in Kannada cinema, and his good works continue to inspire people throughout Karnataka.