Puneeth Rajkumar

Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar (17 March 1975 – 29 October 2021) was an Indian actor, playback singer, television presenter and producer. He appeared in Vasantha Geetha (1980), Bhagyavantha (1981), Chalisuva Modagalu (1982), Eradu Nakshatragalu (1983) and Bettada Hoovu (1985).^[1]

He appeared as the main role in many successful movies such as in Appu (2002), Abhi (2003), Veera Kannadiga (2004), Maurya (2004), Aakash (2005), Ajay (2006), Arasu (2007), Milana (2007), Vamshi (2008), Raam (2009), Jackie (2010), Hudugaru (2011), Raajakumara (2017), and Anjani Putra (2017).^[2][3]

Puneeth Rajkumar was the youngest son of 'Dr. Rajkumar, one of the most famous actors in Kannada cinema. His mother’s name was Parvathamma Rajkumar, who was also a film producer. Puneeth had two elder brothers, Shivaraj Kumar and Raghavendra Rajkumar, who are also popular actors in the Kannada film industry.^[4]

He was known as the Power Star by his fans because of his energy and powerful acting. He was one of the most loved stars in Karnataka. His dancing, singing and action scenes were very popular, especially among young fans ^{[5] [6]}

Puneeth was not only an actor, but also a playback singer. He sang many songs in his own movies and sometimes in other films too. He also worked as a TV presenter, hosting the Kannada version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? called Kannadada Kotyadhipathi.^[7]

He supported many social causes. Puneeth gave money to schools, helped poor students and supported eye donation campaigns. He and his family were known for their charity work.

Rajkumar died on 29 October 2021 in Bengaluru, India from a heart attack, aged 46.^{[8] [9]}

In 2021, Puneeth died suddenly due to a heart attack. His death shocked fans and the film industry. Thousands of people came to pay their respects. Later, his eyes were donated as he had promised.

Even after his death, his final movies like James (2022) ^{[10] [11]} were released and became very popular. People still remember him as a kind-hearted actor, a talented performer, and a proud son of Karnataka. ^[12]