Jump to content

Puneeth Rajkumar

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In this Indian name, the name Rajkumar is a patronymic, and the person should be referred to by the given name, Puneeth.

Puneeth Rajkumar
Puneeth in 2021
Born
Lohith Rajkumar

(1975-03-17)17 March 1975
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Died29 October 2021(2021-10-29) (aged 46)
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Other namesAppu, Power Star
Occupations
  • Actor
  • singer
  • film producer
  • television presenter
  • philanthropist
Years active1976–2022
Spouse
Ashwini Revanth
​
(m. 1999)​
Children2
Parents
RelativesSee Rajkumar family
AwardsFull list
HonoursKarnataka Ratna (2022) (posthumously)

Puneeth Rajkumar (17 March 1975 – 29 October 2021), affectionately known as Appu (by his fans, after his first lead role in the movie Appu), was an Indian actor, playback singer, film producer, television presenter and philanthropist who worked in Kannada cinema. He was the youngest son of legendary actor and matinee idol Dr. Rajkumar. He was one of the most popular actors in Kannada cinema. He appeared as a lead in 32 films. As a child, he appeared in many films. His performances as a child actor in Vasantha Geetha (1980), Bhagyavantha (1981), Chalisuva Modagalu (1982), Eradu Nakshatragalu (1983), Bhakta Prahaladha (1983), Yarivanu (1984) and Bettada Hoovu (1985) were praised.[1] He won the National Film Award for Best Child Artist for his role of Ramu in Bettada Hoovu.[2] He also won Karnataka State Award Best Child artist for Chalisuva Modagalu and Eradu Nakshatragalu. Puneeth's first lead role was in 2002's Appu. In a career spanning three decades, he has won one National Film Award, four Karnataka State Film Awards, six Filmfare Awards South and five SIIMA awards. He was conferred with the Doctorate by Mysuru University. The Karnataka Government conferred the state's highest civilian award, Karnataka Ratna, to Puneeth Rajkumar on 1 November 2022, posthumously.[3]

Puneeth was nicknamed "Power Star" by media and fans. His films as an actor were primarily family dramas and action films but the films produced by him under the PRK Productions banner were of the comedy drama genre, with the theme of family relationships and conveying social messages. He appeared as a lead actor in many commercially successful films such as Appu (2002), Abhi (2003), Aakash (2005), Arasu (2007), Milana (2007), Vamshi (2008), Raam (2009), Jackie (2010), Hudugaru (2011), Power (2014),Raajakumara (2017), Natasaarvabhowma (2019), Yuvarathnaa (2021) and James (2022). His last silver screen appearance, the docu-drama Gandhada Gudi where he played himself, was released on 28 October 2022 coincidentally marking his first death anniversary.[4][5] He was one of the most famous celebrities and one of the highest paid actors in Kannada cinema of his time.[6] In 2012, he debuted as a television presenter on the game show Kannadada Kotyadhipati, a Kannada version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?.[7][8][9] Post his eye donation, Narayana Nethralaya recorded 85,000 pledges within one year as against 65,000 pledges in 28 years.[10]

Personal life

[edit]

Puneeth (born Lohith) was born in Madras to the matinee idol Dr. Rajkumar and Parvathamma Rajkumar on 17 March 1975. He was their fifth and youngest child. When Puneeth was six years old, his family moved to Mysore. His father brought him and his sister Poornima to his film sets until he was ten years old.[11][2] His elder brothers, Shiva Rajkumar and Raghavendra Rajkumar, are also professional actors.[12][13]

From (L to R) Ravi Srivatsa, Shiva Rajkumar, Parvathamma Rajkumar, Puneeth Rajkumar, Raghavendra Rajkumar

Puneeth married Ashwini Revanth from Chikmagalur on 1 December 1999. They met through a common friend, and have two daughters Drithi and Vanditha.[14]

Acting career

[edit]
See also: Puneeth Rajkumar filmography

1976–1989: As child actor

[edit]

Director V. Somashekar cast Puneeth (then known as Lohith) onscreen when he was six months old in his thriller film Premada Kanike (1976).[15][16] This was followed by Vijay's Sanaadi Appanna (1977), based on Krishnamoorthy Puranik's novel of the same name,[17] when Puneeth was one year old. Thayige Thakka Maga (1978) was again directed by V. Somashekar and starred his father. Two years later, directors Dorai–Bhagavan cast him as Shyam in Vasantha Geetha (1980). This was followed by K. S. L. Swamy's mythological drama Bhoomige Banda Bhagavantha (1981, appearing as Lord Krishna) and B. S. Ranga's Bhagyavantha (1982),[18] in which he recorded his first popular song: "Baana Daariyalli Soorya", composed by T. G. Lingappa. That year, he appeared in two hit films (Chalisuva Modagalu and Hosa Belaku) with his father. For the former, Puneeth received his first Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor (Male). In 1983, he appeared in two mythological films: Bhakta Prahlada as the protagonist, Prahlada, and Eradu Nakshatragalu, for which he received his second Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor.[19]

In 1984, Puneeth starred with Rajkumar in the thriller Yarivanu and sang "Kannige Kaanuva", written by Rajan–Nagendra. His biggest break as a child actor came in the 1985 drama Bettada Hoovu, directed by N. Lakshminarayan and based on Shirley L. Arora's novel What Then, Raman? For his portrayal of the innocent Ramu, Puneeth received the award for Best Child Artist at the 33rd National Film Awards.[20] In his early teens, he appeared in Shiva Mecchida Kannappa (1988) as the young Kannappa with his elder brother, Shiva. Puneeth's final child role was in Parashuram (1989), with his father.[21]

In 1994, Puneeth began working as a manager in his family's production house. His first film as a manager was Geluvina Saradara (1996) starring Raghavendra.[22]

2002–2007: Debut as lead and breakthrough

[edit]

In April 2002, Puneeth made his film debut as a leading man in the film Appu with actress, Rakshita also making her film debut.[23] The musical by Gurukiran, directed by Puri Jagannadh and produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar, in which he played a college boy, was a box office success and critics praised his dancing skills. Puneeth sang "Taliban Alla Alla", with lyrics by Upendra and music by Gurukiran. The film's success spawned remakes in Telugu (Idiot (2002)) and Tamil (Dum (2003)).[24]

Puneeth next appeared in Dinesh Babu's Abhi (2003) as a plucky college boy who is devoted to his mother. In the film, based on a true story and produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar, he starred with debutante Ramya.[25]

Meher Ramesh's Veera Kannadiga was Puneeth's first 2004 release. The film, written by Puri Jagannadh, was simultaneously made in Telugu as Andhrawala with N. T. Rama Rao Jr. in the lead role. Paired with debutante Anitha, it showcased his dancing and stunt skills. Although the film was criticised for its violence and poor plot, it was successful at the box office.[26] Puneeth next starred in S. Narayan's family drama Maurya, a remake of the Telugu Amma Nanna O Tamila Ammayi, starring Ravi Teja and written by Puri Jagannadh. The remake enhanced Puneeth's reputation as an actor in his own right.[27]

He released two films in 2005. Mahesh Babu's Aakash reunited Puneeth with Ramya (from Abhi) and he appeared in Veera Shankar's action film Namma Basava, with Gowri Munjal. He recorded songs in both films. Puneeth's only 2006 release was Ajay, directed by Meher Ramesh and produced by Rockline Venkatesh. In the film, a remake of the 2003 Telugu Okkadu, he played a professional kabaddi player who protects a girl endangered by her uncle (played by Prakash Raj). As a result of these films, Puneeth was called the "Powerstar of Sandalwood".[28]

Puneeth's first release in 2007 was his production Arasu, directed by Mahesh Babu, in which he played an expatriate businessman who renounces his wealth for the woman he loves. For his performance, he received his first Filmfare Best Actor award.[29] Puneeth's other release that year was Prakash's reaffirmation of traditional family values Milana. Actress Parvathy Parvathy (actress) made her debut into Kannada films with this film. Puneeth played the radio jockey Akash. For the film, he received his first Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor.[30]

2008–2015: Other films

[edit]

The actor released two films in 2008: D. Rajendra Babu's Bindaas and Prakash's Vamshi. Puneeth's first 2009 release was Raaj – The Showman. Although the film (directed by Prem) was criticised, his performance was praised.[31] His other film Raam, with Priyamani, was a remake of the Telugu hit Ready.[32]

Puneeth returned to the limelight in 2010 with back-to-back hits. The first was Jacob Varghese's political thriller Prithvi, in which he played a bureaucrat in Ballari district who fights corruption. His next release was the action film Jackie, directed by Duniya Soori,[33] which was a commercial success. In 2011, Puneeth co-starred in K. Madesh's Hudugaru, a remake of the Tamil film Nadodigal[34] in which he reprised M. Sasikumar's role in the original. For his performance, he received his second Filmfare and first SIIMA Best Actor awards.[35] In Yogaraj Bhat's travelogue Paramathma, Puneeth's next release, his character searches for love.[36]

He worked with Soori again in 2012 on the action film Anna Bond, produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar.[37] For his performance, he received the Suvarna Best Actor award and was nominated for an IIFA award. Puneeth starred in another Tamil remake Poraali, filmed in Kannada as Yaare Koogadali, by Samuthirakani.[38]

In 2014, Puneeth starred in Jayanth C. Paranjee's romance Ninnindale, with Erica Fernandes. Although his performance as a New York-based adventure enthusiast based in New York was praised by critics,[39] the film was unsuccessful at the box office. Puneeth's next release was K. Madesh's Power***, a remake of the Telugu film Dookudu. Appearing with Trisha for the first time, he played a tough police officer. The film earned a record ₹22 crore (₹220 million) in six days.[40] In 2015, he played himself in B. M. Giriraj's film Mythri, which also starred Mohanlal and Bhavana.[41] Puneeth's other release that year was Pawan Wadeyar's Rana Vikrama, an action film with Adah Sharma and Anjali.[42]

2016–2022

[edit]

In March 2016, Puneeth worked for M. Saravanan's Chakravyuha and Duniya Soori's Doddmane Hudga. In 2017, he appeared in Santhosh Ananddram 's Raajakumara, which broke all-records in box-office and became the highest-grossing Kannada-language film of all time beating previous record of Mungaru Male,[43][44] later the record was taken up by the movie K.G.F: Chapter 1. He also had the starring role in A Harsha's Anjani Putra alongside Rashmika Mandanna. Puneeth Rajkumar has played narrator role in the Anup Bhandari directed Rajaratha. In 2019 his film Natasaarvabhowma was released and also had commercial success.[45][46] His last film in a leading role, James, was posthumously released on what would have been Puneeth's 47th birthday, 17 March 2022. It broke the record for the biggest opening day collection, and was the fastest Kannada movie to gross 100 crores.[47][48]

Popularity and other works

[edit]

The sea of people, thronging that gave last respects to Puneeth Rajkumar, is testimony to his iconic status in the state. Over the last two decades, Puneeth Rajkumar grew from being an actor to an icon, much like his father, Dr Rajkumar. Puneeth had leveraged the influence he had to endorse many causes, refusing to take any remuneration for them.

Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC)

Puneeth Rajkumar had also agreed to be the brand ambassador for the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) in 2019. After his demise, many recalled how he had, true to his style, readily agreed to be the face of the state-run organisation and refused to take any money for the same. He had reportedly wanted to encourage people to use more public transportation. During his association with the organisation, he had actively endorsed several campaigns of the BMTC, including the Bus Priority Lane, Less Traffic Day and a campaign against harassment of women.[49]

Brand ambassador for the state-run Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF)

Following in the footsteps of his late father Dr Rajkumar, Puneeth Rajkumar too donned the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF) brand ambassador's cap without accepting any remuneration. In the 10 years that Puneeth endorsed KMF products, there was no actual agreement between him and the Federation. AS Premnath, former KMF MD, told The New Indian Express that Dr Rajkumar was the brand ambassador in the 1990s. “That was his first and last endorsement for any product, and it was advertised in newspapers and on Doordarshan. The legendary actor did not take money,” he added. After Dr Rajkumar died in 2006, KMF did not have an ambassador for a few years. “In 2011, I met Puneeth and asked him if he could endorse KMF. He readily accepted,” Premnath recalled. It was also an idea of then KMF chairman Somashekar Reddy.

Asked about remuneration, Puneeth had said, “When my father endorsed your products without taking a paisa, how can I demand money?” The actor endorsed Nandini Goodlife tetra packs in the first year. “When we told him the advertisement will be shot at a government school in a remote village near Devarayanadurga, he obliged. We shot the advertisement for three days.

He would reach the spot at 8.00 am and leave only at 6.00 pm. I remember him as a very down-to-earth person. He would sit with the children and have lunch,” he recalled. “With just his endorsement, KMF products started seeing good sales. That was the power of Puneeth,” he said.[50]

Right to Education (RTE)

Education was a cause that was close to Puneeth Rajkumar and over decades, he worked in many ways to help those in need with the same. According to reports, he used to consistently sponsor the fees of thousands of students every year, and used to also financially assist many Kannada-medium schools in the state. In 2013, when the state government was finding several seats vacant in the Right to Education (RTE) quota, they roped in Puneeth and Radhika Pandit as brand ambassadors to spread awareness about the legislation through a series of newspaper and TV advertisements. As the brand ambassador for the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, he often appealed to parents to send their children to school and worked towards reducing drop-out rates in schools. He also had agreed to be the brand ambassador for the Skill Development Board. Speaking to the Times of India, Higher Education Minister CN Ashwatha Narayana said that Puneeth readily agreed to the proposal.[49]

K. Saurabh, who secured 260th rank in the UPSC Exams of 2023 had revealed that Puneeth's 2010 movie Prithvi to be his inspiration to be a civil servant.[51]

COVID-19 Pandemic

In times of crisis, Puneeth was often seen not just financially contributing to funds to help those in distress, but also urging his fans to do the same. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck India in 2020, Puneeth actively involved himself in creating awareness about safety. In a video by the Karnataka government, he was seen urging people to support the government in controlling the disease. In addition to this, Puneeth also donated Rs 50 lakh to Chief Minister's Relief Fund in March 2020, amid the first wave of COVID-19 infections.[49]

Puneeth was involved in philanthropy with his mother at the Shakti Dhama ashram in Mysore,[52] and owned the Bengaluru Royals, Premier Futsal team.[53][54]

Playback singing

[edit]
Main article: Puneeth Rajkumar discography

Puneeth, just like his father, is one of very few actors who have excelled in professional singing too. He sang alone in Appu, and sang a duet on "Jothe Jotheyali" from Vamshi.[55] He sang a fast number in Jackie and sang in his brother Shiva's films 'Lava Kusha and Mylari.[56] Puneeth Rajkumar has sung a song "Kanna Sanne Indhalene" for Akira movie which was composed by B. Ajaneesh Loknath. He has revealed that his compensation for singing for other than his home-productions goes to charity and several orphanages and old age homes.[49][57]

Television

[edit]

In 2012, Puneeth hosted the first season of Kannadada Kotyadhipati, modelled on the Hindi show Kaun Banega Crorepati, which in turn, was modelled on the British show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?.[7] Its first season was successful[58] and a second season followed. The success of second season was cited as a prime reason for Suvarna channel replacing Udaya TV from the top slot for the first time in 19 years.[59] He again hosted the fourth season replacing Ramesh Aravind.[60][61][62] He also went to be the host of Colors Kannada's reality show, Family Power.[63] He was producing a serial Netravathi in Udaya TV.[64][65]

Endorsements

[edit]

Puneeth was a brand ambassador for Karnataka Milk Federation's Nandini Milk products, LED Bulb Project,[66] 7 Up (PepsiCo), F-Square, Dixcy Scott, Malabar Gold and Diamonds,[67] Gold Winner,[68] Ziox Mobile,[69] Pothys, Flipkart and Manappuram,[70] and was a brand ambassador of the Indian Premier League cricket team Royal Challengers Bangalore.[71][72]

PRK Audio

[edit]

Puneeth was the founder and owner of the music label PRK Audio; the label's channel on YouTube has 15.1 lakh subscribers as of 1 November 2022.[73][60]

Death

[edit]
Burial Site of Puneeth Rajkumar near his family grave in Sri Kanteerava Studios, Bangalore.

On 29 October 2021, Puneeth complained of uneasiness to his wife Ashwini, and died on his way to a hospital in Bangalore at the age of 46. The reason for his death was declared to be a heart attack.[2][74] He donated his eyes at the Narayana Nethralaya Eye Hospital in accordance with a pledge by his father Rajkumar, that he along with all his family members will donate their eyes after death.[75] The donation of his eyes has given eyesight to four different people.[76][77] His state funeral was attended by the then Chief Minister of Karnataka, Basavaraj Bommai and other leaders.[78]

The Chief Minister appealed to the people to pay homage and respect to Puneeth by behaving with self-restraint and not giving room for any untoward incidents due to emotional outbursts. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister postponed the meeting of the Group of Ministers on the GST issue scheduled to be held on Friday afternoon under his chairmanship and also canceled his plans to visit Chikkamagaluru and Hassan districts.

There was a wave of mourning in the entire state of Karnataka due to his death. Section 144 was implemented in many areas to control the fans.[79]

Many films paid tribute in memory of Puneeth Rajkumar

Bangalore was on high alert after the death of Puneeth Rajkumar. Offices and shops in Bangalore were shut down on Friday, an unofficial bandh was declared and police were brought in to control swarming crowds of fans in anticipation of violence after Puneeth died. India's biggest IT services firm, Tata Consultancy Services,[80] sent its employees an advisory around 15:00 local time, asking them to go home early. Television channels showed crowds of fans swarming toward the hospital where his remains were kept, and police were out in force trying to control them. Several cinema halls across Bangalore closed for the day and stopped screening movies in the city. Several popular pubs across the city also closed down after news of Puneeth Rajkumar's death came in.

A road in Bangalore, named after the actor

Puneeth's remains were kept in state at Kanteerava Stadium. Many celebrities, including his close friends and co-actors from the Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu film industries arrived to pay their respects. Till the afternoon, the state government had plans to go ahead with the cremation on Saturday evening. But owing to the swerving crowd, the Karnataka government announced on Saturday that the cremation would be held on Sunday morning and the timings would be decided later. Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said that the decision was taken as large crowds were still waiting to pay their last respects to their favorite actor. "As per the wishes of people, the funeral will be held tomorrow (Sunday) allowing everyone to have a final viewing.[81] I appeal to fans to cooperate with the police. The police are here to help them. They are also Puneeth's fans," he explained.

Controlling the crowd outside the stadium was very challenging for the police. No vehicle could move on Vitthal Mallya Road owing to the size of the crowd gathered outside the stadium. Police had to divert vehicles via Kasturba Road. After noon, traffic police blocked the movement of vehicles near the Cubbon Park gate. Vehicles of film stars and even those of the police had a tough time navigating the crowd outside Kanteerava Stadium in central Bangalore. From Friday evening, people were flocking to the stadium without any break.

His body was kept for public view at Kanteerava Stadium for 2 days and was reportedly attended by more than 30 Lakh people[82][83] and was one of the largest funeral gatherings [citation needed] in Indian history of funerals. He wasn't cremated, like in Hindu customs, but buried to make a mausoleum dedicated to him so that people can still pay their last respects. He was buried alongside his parents at Sree Kanteerava Studios in Bangalore.[78]

After the eye initiative of Puneeth Rajkumar, there was a sudden increase in the eye donations across Karnataka that gave a boost and awareness amongst the people of the State. The doctors of Narayana Nethralaya that runs Dr. Rajkumar's eye bank has mentioned that from the eye bank's inauguration, there was 76,000 eye pledges in total for 30 years. After November 2021, there is a huge number of one lakh eye donations registered in the last 10 months alone.[84]

Awards and honors

[edit]
Main article: List of awards and nominations received by Puneeth Rajkumar
  • On November 1, 2022, he was posthumously awarded the Karnataka Ratna (The most prestigious award in Karnataka) after his death.[85]
  • On 22 March 2022, he was posthumously awarded honorary doctorate from University of Mysore at its 102nd convocation and was received by his wife Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar.[86]
  • The State Government announced to mark his birthday as "Inspiration Day".[87]
  • On May 3, 2022, he was given the Basavashree Award posthumously for the year 2021.[88]
  • The 212th edition of the Lalbagh Flower Show was dedicated as a tribute to him and his father Dr.Rajkumar.[89][90]
  • A tableau dedicated to him was made on the occasion of the 2022 Mysore Dasara procession.[91][92]
  • Dolls conceptualized on him were reported to be the highlight of the 2022 Dasara doll display.[93][94]
  • An entire day was dedicated to screening his movies at the 2022 Dasara Film Festival.[95]
  • He was posthumously conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 67th Filmfare Awards.[96]
  • On October 22 & 23, 2022 restaurants of Bangalore hosted a food festival - Flavours of Gandhada Gudi on the occasion of his last theatrical release Gandhada Gudi.[97]
  • All the 200 Kannada movies which released within one year of his demise, paid tribute to him in their opening credits.[98]
  • 75 cutouts with garlands were erected outside his memorial on his first death anniversary.[99]
  • One of the 75 satellites intended to be launched into orbit during November 15 to December 2022 on the occasion of the 75th year of Indian independence was named after him.[100]
  • The Bangalore Outer Ring Road 12-km stretch between Nayandahalli Junction on Mysuru Road and Vega City Mall on Bannerghatta Road was named as Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Road.[101]
  • The 23-foot height statue of Puneeth was unveiled as part of the inauguration of the Ballari Utsava in Bellary in 2023.[102]
  • In March 2023, the then Karnataka Chief Minister Bommai inaugurated a multispecialty hospital built in the name of the actor at Nayandahalli in Govindarajanagar constituency.[103]
  • The Karnataka Health Department on 31 October 2023 launched Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Hrudaya Jyoti Yojana to treat people suffering from sudden heart attacks and cardiac issues.[104] The second phase of the scheme was launched in March 2024.[105]
  • A few Bengalureans, on 5 December 2023, paid tribute to him by painting a mural in Basavanagudi.[106]
  • At the 13th State Level Philatelic Exhibition KARNAPEX - 2024 conducted from January 5th to January 8th, "Special Postal Cover" dedicated to Puneeth Rajkumar was released.[107]
  • A free mass marriage event to commemorate the birth anniversary of Puneeth Rajkumar was organised on March 17, 2024, at Dasara Exhibition premises in Mysuru.[108]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar Biography, Life Story, Career, Awards & Achievements". Filmibeat. Archived from the original on 3 May 2019. Retrieved 23 December 2018.
  2. ^ a b c Bharadwaj, K. V. Aditya (30 October 2021). "For Puneeth Rajkumar, this was no time to die". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Archived from the original on 8 November 2021. Retrieved 8 November 2021.
  3. ^ "Karnataka Ratna for Puneeth". The Hindu. 16 November 2021. Archived from the original on 18 November 2021. Retrieved 18 November 2021.
  4. ^ "Superstars of the Kannada Film Industry". Archived from the original on 24 July 2016. Retrieved 27 November 2016.
  5. ^ Suresh, Sunayana. "3 films for Puneeth, Puneeth Rajkumar this year". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 15 April 2023. Retrieved 12 July 2017.
  6. ^ "Top 20 Highest Paid South Indian Actors of 2014". International Business Times. ibtimes.co.in. 16 December 2014. Archived from the original on 5 April 2023. Retrieved 30 September 2016.
  7. ^ a b Tantri, Balaraj (4 January 2012). "ಕೋಟ್ಯಾಧಿಪತಿಗೆ ನೂಕುನುಗ್ಗಲು, 4ಲಕ್ಷ ಎಸ್ಎಂಎಸ್". Oneindia (in Kannada). Archived from the original on 28 May 2014. Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  8. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography & Birthday". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 10 January 2021. Retrieved 7 January 2021.
  9. ^ "2005 Year Round Up". chitraloka.com. 30 December 2005. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 1 March 2022.
  10. ^ Yasmeen, Afshan (29 October 2022). "Puneeth's eye donation inspired over 85,000 to pledge eyes over one year; 2,250 eyes collected". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  11. ^ "I can never be my father". The Times of India. 15 November 2010. Archived from the original on 6 December 2014. Retrieved 25 September 2014.
  12. ^ "After Puneeth Rajkumar's death, elder brother Shiva Rajkumar's Bhajrangi 2 shows cancelled". India Today. 29 October 2021. Archived from the original on 29 October 2021. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  13. ^ "Shivanna and Puneeth Rajkumar promote 'Rajatantra'". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 22 November 2021. Retrieved 23 November 2021.
  14. ^ Veena (2 December 2015). "16 Years Marital Bliss For Powerstar Puneeth Rajkumar & Wife Ashwini". Filmibeat. Archived from the original on 1 July 2017. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  15. ^ "Naa Bidalare Ninnanu – Premada Kanike – Rajkumar Hits". YouTube. 19 July 2011. Archived from the original on 15 February 2016. Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  16. ^ "Expectations". Screen India. 5 October 2001. Archived from the original on 1 November 2001. Retrieved 26 March 2024.
  17. ^ "Naane Thaayi Naane Thande – Sanadi Appanna (1977) – Kannada". YouTube. Retrieved 12 July 2012.[dead YouTube link]
  18. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography & Birthday". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 5 June 2019. Retrieved 11 June 2019.
  19. ^ "Everyone's Appu: Recalling Puneeth Rajkumar's contributions to cinema". The News Minute. 30 October 2021. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  20. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar won a national award as a child artist". The Times of India. TNN. 28 February 2014. Archived from the original on 25 December 2017. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  21. ^ Sathyendran, Nita (12 March 2011). "My name is Parvathy". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 5 April 2023. Retrieved 21 September 2020 – via www.thehindu.com.
  22. ^ Prasad S., Shyam. "I wanted to earn money and make merry: Puneeth Rajkumar". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 9 August 2018. Retrieved 23 November 2021.
  23. ^ "The return of the son". Rediff.com. 27 February 2002. Archived from the original on 9 December 2014. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  24. ^ "From 'School Master' to 'U Turn': A look at Kannada films remade in other Indian languages". The Times of India. 15 April 2020. Archived from the original on 20 January 2021. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  25. ^ "Abhi Movie Review". Chitraloka. 26 April 2003. Archived from the original on 1 April 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  26. ^ "Veera Kannadiga – film review". Viggy.com. Archived from the original on 24 March 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  27. ^ "Mourya Movie Review". Chitraloka. 22 October 2004. Archived from the original on 24 March 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  28. ^ "5 movies that prove that Puneeth Rajkumar is the real Powerstar of Sandalwood!". Today updates. Archived from the original on 24 March 2016.
  29. ^ "54th Filmfare Awards South Winners". India Interacts. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016.
  30. ^ "Birthday Exclusive: Puneeth Rajkumar". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 2 June 2015. Retrieved 2 April 2016.
  31. ^ "Raaj, the Showman disappoints". Rediff.com. 14 August 2009. Archived from the original on 30 March 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  32. ^ "Raam Movie Review". The Times of India. 14 May 2016. Archived from the original on 2 November 2012. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  33. ^ "The glitter, the gloss, the razzmatazz". The Times of India. 3 July 2011. Archived from the original on 16 July 2012. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  34. ^ "cinemagupshup.com". Cinemagupshup.com. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  35. ^ Letty Mariam Abraham (10 July 2012). "Puneeth Rajkumar received the Best Actor (Male) Kannada Award for the film Hudugaru". Bollywoodlife.com. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  36. ^ "News Archives". The Hindu. 3 December 2010. Archived from the original on 7 December 2010. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  37. ^ "Puneet to work with Soori". Sify. 3 December 2010. Archived from the original on 4 January 2014. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  38. ^ "Upcoming Movie Releases | Puneet Rajkumar | Puneet Rajkumar Upcoming Movies – Filmibeat". Oneindia. 17 March 1975. Archived from the original on 9 July 2014. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  39. ^ Shyam Prasad S (7 January 2014). "Movie review: Ninnindale". Bangalore Mirror. Archived from the original on 2 January 2017. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  40. ^ "'Power***' Box Office: Puneet Starrer Makes Record Collection of ₹22 Crore in 6 Days". IBTimes. 3 September 2014. Archived from the original on 5 March 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  41. ^ Prathibha Joy (19 February 2015). "Puneeth, Mohanlalm Atul share the screen". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 4 November 2021. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  42. ^ Veena (20 March 2015). "EXCLUSIVE: Anjali Completes Dubbing For Puneeth Rajkumar's 'Rana Vikrama'". Filmibeat. Archived from the original on 29 June 2018. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  43. ^ Upadhyaya, Prakash (1 July 2017). "Sudeep, Yash, Upendra, Jaggesh to join Puneeth's Raajakumara 100-day celebration". International Business Times, India Edition. Archived from the original on 2 September 2019. Retrieved 21 September 2020.
  44. ^ "Rajakumara 100, all time industry hit". indiaglitz.com. 30 June 2017. Archived from the original on 21 November 2021. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  45. ^ "Natasaarvabhowma going strong at the BO". Bangalore Mirror. 14 February 2019. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  46. ^ "Natasaarvabhowma Review: An out-and-out Puneeth Rajkumar show". Cinema Express. 8 February 2019. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  47. ^ "James movie first day collection is 32 crores". 18 March 2022. Archived from the original on 18 March 2022. Retrieved 2 April 2022.
  48. ^ "James box office collection Day 6: Puneeth Rajkumar's film holds steady". 23 March 2022. Archived from the original on 25 March 2022. Retrieved 2 April 2022.
  49. ^ a b c d "How Puneeth Rajkumar endorsed social causes without charging a fee". The News Minute. 30 October 2021. Archived from the original on 19 February 2023. Retrieved 19 February 2023.
  50. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar, Karnataka Milk Federation ambassador without remuneration". The New Indian Express. 30 October 2021. Archived from the original on 19 February 2023. Retrieved 19 February 2023.
  51. ^ "Upsc ಫಲಿತಾಂಶ: ಮೈಸೂರಿನ ಸೌರಭ್‌ಗೆ 260ನೇ ರ‍್ಯಾಂಕ್‌– ಪ್ರೇರಣೆ ನೀಡಿದ ಪೃಥ್ವಿ ಸಿನಿಮಾ". Archived from the original on 10 December 2023. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  52. ^ "Punith Rajkumar Bio Profile Childhood Pics Wife Marriage Daughter Family Photos". Youth Indies. 10 July 2011. Archived from the original on 5 August 2012. Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  53. ^ "Premier Futsal: Rules, teams, fixtures, everything you need to know". indianexpress.com. 15 July 2016. Archived from the original on 16 November 2016. Retrieved 22 January 2017.
  54. ^ "Premier Futsal – Kannada actor Rajkumar acquires Bengaluru franchise | Goal.com". www.goal.com. 12 July 2016. Archived from the original on 26 September 2010.
  55. ^ "Desi Shock Media Videos". Media.desishock.com. 6 February 2010. Archived from the original on 9 July 2011. Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  56. ^ "Myalri creates a big buzz". Sify. 14 December 2010. Archived from the original on 22 October 2012. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  57. ^ "Puneeth's remuneration for singing goes to charity". The Times of India. 13 August 2013. Archived from the original on 2 November 2021.
  58. ^ "Kannadada Kotyadhipathi Season 2". chitraloka.com. 12 December 2012. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  59. ^ "The Biggest TV Story in 20 Years – Analysis". chitraloka.com. 3 August 2013. Archived from the original on 7 April 2022. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  60. ^ a b "Puneeth Rajkumar: Will act in my home production shortly". Bangalore Mirror. 19 June 2019. Archived from the original on 26 April 2022. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  61. ^ "ಸದ್ಯದಲ್ಲೇ ಟಿವಿ ವೀಕ್ಷಕರಿಗೆ 'ದರ್ಶನ' ಕೊಡಲಿರುವ ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್‌ಕುಮಾರ್". Vijaya Karnataka (in Kannada). 31 March 2019. Archived from the original on 19 November 2021. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  62. ^ "Kannada actor plays 'Kannadada Kotyadipathi' – IBNLive". Ibnlive.in.com. 20 April 2013. Archived from the original on 1 May 2013. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  63. ^ Shyam Prasad S (6 October 2017). "Puneeth will get families together". Bangalore Mirror. Archived from the original on 26 April 2022. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  64. ^ "ನೇತ್ರಾವತಿ ಧಾರಾವಾಹಿ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಕ್ಕೆ ಮುಂದಾದ ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್ ಕುಮಾರ್" (in Kannada). Prajavani. 2 March 2021. Archived from the original on 25 January 2024. Retrieved 15 May 2021.
  65. ^ "New soap opera Netharavathi goes on air from Monday". The Times of India. 10 March 2021. Archived from the original on 10 March 2021. Retrieved 15 May 2021.
  66. ^ Kumar, B. s Satish (24 November 2015). "Puneeth and Ramya are brand ambassadors of LED project". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 23 November 2019. Retrieved 22 October 2018 – via www.thehindu.com.
  67. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar launches Malabar Gold collection". Mangalore Today. Archived from the original on 29 October 2021. Retrieved 29 October 2021.
  68. ^ "Gold Winner Vita D3+ Adds Star Power Signs up Puneeth Rajkumar as Brand Ambassador". businesswireindia.com. 21 July 2017. Archived from the original on 4 December 2017. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  69. ^ Urs, Anil (20 January 2018). "Ziox Mobiles ropes in Puneeth Rajkumar as brand ambassador". thehindubusinessline.com. Archived from the original on 25 June 2022. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  70. ^ "MANAPPURAM FINANCE – Gold Loan | Loan against Gold Ornaments | Loan against Gold Jewellery | Jewel Loan". Manappuram.com. 31 March 2010. Archived from the original on 26 September 2010. Retrieved 26 August 2010.
  71. ^ "Puneet Raj Kumar is new Royal Challengers ambassador". Hindustan Times. 13 March 2010. Archived from the original on 4 November 2021. Retrieved 7 January 2021.
  72. ^ "IPL takes a glam beating". ibnlive.in.com. 23 May 2012. Archived from the original on 29 September 2014. Retrieved 29 September 2014.
  73. ^ "Puneeth's PRK Audio enters the music market with the film; to be out on Nov 24". Bangalore Mirror. Archived from the original on 2 April 2018. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  74. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar passes away at 46". The Indian Express. 29 October 2021. Archived from the original on 29 October 2021. Retrieved 29 October 2021.
  75. ^ "Like father, like son: Puneeth Rajkumar donates eyes". Deccan Herald. 30 October 2021. Archived from the original on 30 October 2021. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  76. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumars parting gift eyesight for 4 people message for all". NDTV. Archived from the original on 6 December 2021. Retrieved 6 December 2021.
  77. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar donated his eyes which have helped 4 people gain vision". ThePrint. Archived from the original on 6 December 2021. Retrieved 6 December 2021.
  78. ^ a b ""Final Salute": Actor Puneeth Rajkumar Paid Last Respects In Karnataka". NDTV.com. 31 October 2021. Archived from the original on 31 October 2021. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  79. ^ Murakami, Olivia (29 October 2021). "Kannada star Puneeth Rajkumar dies of heart attack during workout, section 144 in Karnataka". www.ayupp.com. Archived from the original on 25 January 2024. Retrieved 20 February 2023.
  80. ^ "Bengaluru on alert after death of actor Puneeth Rajkumar". The Economic Times. 29 October 2021. ISSN 0013-0389. Archived from the original on 10 February 2023. Retrieved 10 February 2023.
  81. ^ "Karnataka government decides to hold Puneeth Rajkumar's cremation on Sunday". The Times of India. 30 October 2021. ISSN 0971-8257. Archived from the original on 10 February 2023. Retrieved 10 February 2023.
  82. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar: ಸುಮಾರು 25 ಲಕ್ಷ ಜನರಿಂದ ಪುನೀತ್ ಅಂತಿಮ ದರ್ಶನ; ಎಲ್ಲರ ಸಹಕಾರಕ್ಕೆ ಸಿಎಂ ಬೊಮ್ಮಾಯಿ ಕೃತಜ್ಞತೆ". 31 October 2021. Archived from the original on 8 December 2022. Retrieved 31 January 2023.
  83. ^ "Family, fans bid Puneeth Rajkumar tearful farewell". Deccan Herald. 31 October 2021. Archived from the original on 6 October 2022. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  84. ^ Correspondent, Special (5 September 2022). "One lakh pledge eyes following Puneeth Rajkumar's death". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Archived from the original on 2 December 2022. Retrieved 24 January 2023. {{cite news}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  85. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar to be honoured with Karnataka Ratna award: CM Bommai". The News Minute. 16 November 2021. Archived from the original on 20 November 2021. Retrieved 20 November 2021.
  86. ^ "Ashwini receives honorary doctorate on behalf of Puneeth Rajkumar from University of Mysore". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 22 March 2022. Retrieved 22 March 2022.
  87. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar's Birth Anniversary to be Celebrated as Inspiration Day". 16 September 2022. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  88. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar to get Basavashree award on May 3 - the New Indian Express". 6 April 2022. Archived from the original on 10 December 2023. Retrieved 10 December 2023.
  89. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar remembered at Lalbagh Flower Show". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  90. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar-themed Lal Bagh flower show in Bengaluru draws huge crowd on final day". 15 August 2022. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  91. ^ "The tableau of Puneeth Rajkumar in Mysuru Dasara JambuSavari | ಮೈಸೂರು ಜಂಬೂ ಸವಾರಿಯಲ್ಲಿ ಪುನೀತ್ ಸ್ತಬ್ಧಚಿತ್ರ News in Kannada". Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  92. ^ "Dasara 2022 | ದಸರಾ ಸ್ತಬ್ಧಚಿತ್ರದಲ್ಲಿ ಪುನೀತ್‌ ರಾಜ್‌ಕುಮಾರ್‌ ನೆನಪು: ಚಾಮರಾಜಗರ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯಿಂದ ಅಪ್ಪುಗೆ ವಿಶೇಷ ಗೌರವ". Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  93. ^ "Dolls of breastfeeding women, Vidhana Soudha, actor Puneeth Rajkumar are popular in Dasara 2022". The Hindu. 30 September 2022. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  94. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar dolls on sale this Dasara season". 23 September 2022. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  95. ^ "Curtains go up on Dasara film festival". The Hindu. 26 September 2022. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  96. ^ "Filmfare Awards: Appu honoured with 'Lifetime Achievement Award' (posthumous); Kannada winners' list". One India. 10 October 2022. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 20 March 2023.
  97. ^ S, Sridevi. "Bengaluru restaurants to host a fitting tribute to foodie Puneeth Rajkumar". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 25 January 2024. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  98. ^ "Karnataka: 200 films paid tributes to Puneeth Rajkumar in their opening credits". The Times of India. 11 September 2022. Archived from the original on 25 January 2024. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  99. ^ "Puneeth's last film 'Gandhada Gudi' hits screens today". 27 October 2022. Archived from the original on 6 November 2022. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  100. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar to have a satellite named after him". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 25 January 2024. Retrieved 6 November 2022.
  101. ^ "12-km-long Bengaluru Outer Ring Road named after late actor Puneeth Rajkumar". News9live. 7 February 2023. Archived from the original on 10 February 2023. Retrieved 10 February 2023.
  102. ^ "Puneeth Rajkumar's biggest statue unveiled in Bellary". The Times of India. 23 January 2023. Archived from the original on 1 February 2023. Retrieved 25 February 2023.
  103. ^ "ಡಾ.ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್‌ಕುಮಾರ್ ಮಲ್ಟಿಸ್ಪೆಷಾಲಿಟಿ ಆಸ್ಪತ್ರೆ ಉದ್ಘಾಟಿಸಿದ ಸಿಎಂ ಬೊಮ್ಮಾಯಿ". TV9 Kannada (in Kannada). 23 March 2023. Archived from the original on 25 January 2024. Retrieved 25 March 2023.
  104. ^ "Karnataka launches Dr Puneeth Rajkumar Hrudaya Jyoti Yojana for cardiac emergencies". Hindustan Times. 1 November 2023. Retrieved 5 March 2024.
  105. ^ "Phase 2 of Puneeth Rajkumar Hrudaya Jyothi scheme to be launched today". 15 March 2024.
  106. ^ "Bengaluru mural pays tribute to 'power star' Puneeth Rajkumar". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 5 March 2024.
  107. ^ "A Festival of Stamps' to be held from January 5 in Bengaluru". The Hindu. 4 January 2024. Archived from the original on 6 January 2024. Retrieved 6 January 2024.
  108. ^ "Free mass marriage to mark Puneeth Rajkumar's birth anniversary". 7 February 2024.
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Puneeth Rajkumar.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Puneeth_Rajkumar&oldid=1256096444"