Bengaluru, Oct 13 – Kannada theatre and film star Raju Talikote, 59, died on Monday after a severe heart attack during a film shoot in Udupi district, Karnataka. The actor’s original name was Rajesab Maktumsab Yankanchi, but he earned fame as “Raju Talikote,” the name he adopted after growing up in the town that shares his last name.
Talikote also served as the director of Dharwad Rangayana, a prominent theatre group in western Karnataka. He balanced a career on stage and in cinema, appearing in movies such as “Hendathi Andare Hendathi,” “Manasare,” “Pancharangi,” “Rajadhani,” “Lifeu Ishtene,” “Alemari,” “Myna,” “Topiwala,” and the hit comedy “Punjabi House.” In 2018, he stepped into reality TV as a contestant on Bigg Boss Kannada Season 7.
He leaves behind a large family: two wives, two sons, and three daughters. According to his son Bharat, the actor had suffered a previous heart attack that doctors treated, but the second strike proved fatal. “Our father had two wives, but we grew up together in harmony,” Bharat said in a brief statement.
The family plans to hold the last rites in Chikkasindagi village.
Political leaders reacted quickly. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed deep sadness at the loss of a “renowned theatre actor, comedian, and director.” He added, “Raju Talikote earned immense popularity through Kannada films and left an unforgettable mark on the industry.”
Former Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai also spoke of the actor’s impact. “He was a beloved comedy artist who won hearts on stage and screen,” Bommai said. “His untimely death while leading Dharwad Rangayana is a great loss to the arts.” He offered prayers for the family’s strength.
Born in 1965, Talikote grew up in his parents’ drama troupe, Shriguru Khasgateshwara Natya Sangha. He studied locally until the fourth grade before his parents’ early death cut his formal education short. He worked various jobs, including hotel and lorry cleaning, before returning to the stage. Talikote’s play “Kaliyugada Kuduka” ran for over 15,000 shows and launched his career. Other popular works included “Kudukara Samrajya” and “Hattigudi Lakkavva.”
Raju Talikote’s life story – from a child actor in his village to a celebrated theatre director and film star – ended abruptly when he went down with a heart attack on a film set. His passing has left a void in Karnataka’s cultural scene, as fans, colleagues, and politicians mourn a beloved figure who earned respect through both humor and heartfelt performances.
Source: ianslive
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
