The year 2024 has been a bittersweet journey for the Kannada film industry. While numerous films graced the silver screen, only a few managed to leave a lasting impact. Alongside this, the industry suffered the loss of several talented artists who bid adieu to this world.
Here’s a tribute to the personalities we lost this year:
Actor K. Shivaram
Once a celebrated actor in Kannada cinema, K. Shivaram passed away on February 29 due to a heart attack. Born in 1953 in a village near Bidadi, Ramanagara district, he began his career as a KAS officer in 1985, later becoming an IAS officer, writing his exams in Kannada.
Shivarama made his cinematic debut in 1993 with
Ba Nalle Madhuchandrake, directed by Nagathihalli Chandrashekar. He went on to act in films like
Vasantha Kavya,
Khalanayaka,
Sanglian-3, and
Game for Love.
Director-Actor Dwarakish
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The industry mourned the loss of its cherished gem, Dwarakish, on April 16. Known as the “Karnatakada Prachanda Kulla” (“Mighty Dwarf of Karnataka”), his contribution as an actor, producer, and director is unparalleled.
With a career starting in 1964 with
Veera Sankalpa, Dwarakish became synonymous with humor and brilliance, appearing in movies like
Mayor Muttanna,
Kulla Agent 000, and
Cowboy Kulla. As a director, he helmed films like
Nee Baredu Kaanada Kadalige and
Dance Raja Dance.
Actress Pavithra Jayaram
The popular television actress Pavithra Jayaram, hailing from Mandya district, tragically lost her life in a road accident near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, on May 11.
Known for her role in Telugu serial
Trinayani and Kannada shows like
Robo Family and
Radha Ramana, her untimely demise shocked fans.
Actress Aparna
The sudden passing of Aparna on July 11, due to lung cancer, left the industry grieving. A celebrated voice in Kannada television, she began her career as a presenter and RJ in the 1990s, acting in programs and films like
Masanada Hoovu and the popular comedy show
Majaa Talkies.
Director Deepak Aras
Director Deepak Aras, brother of actress Amulya, passed away on October 17 due to kidney failure. Known for his work in
Manasology (2011) and
Sugar Factory (2023), his demise left a void in Sandalwood.
Director Gururprasad
Known for his critically acclaimed films
Matha and
Eddelu Manjunatha, director Gururprasad ended his life on November 3, reportedly due to financial struggles. His death sparked discussions within the industry about the challenges artists face.
Actress Shobitha Shivanna
Television actress Shobitha Shivanna, recognized for her role in
Brahmagantu, died by suicide on November 30. The reasons behind her tragic decision remain unclear.
Actor T. Thimmayya
Veteran actor T. Thimmayya, known for his roles in films like
Chalisuva Modagalu,
Bandhana, and
Kurukshetra, passed away on November 16 due to age-related ailments. He shared the screen with legends like Dr. Rajkumar and Vishnuvardhan.
Director Chi. Dattaraj
Director Chi. Dattaraj, known for movies like
Keralida Simha and
Shruthi Seridaga, died on October 14. His contributions to Kannada cinema, especially with Dr. Rajkumar and Shivrajkumar, remain timeless.
The year 2024 will be remembered as a year of irreplaceable losses in Sandalwood. While their physical presence may be gone, their contributions to Kannada cinema will remain eternal.
