Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Friday announced tax exemption for the late Puneeth Rajkumar-starrer Kannada documentary ‘Gandha Gudi’, which is based on conservation and protection of flora and fauna. It is said to be the last film of the actor, who died of cardiac arrest in 2021 at the age of 46. Bommai, who attended a pre-release event of the film here, said that he is happy to attend the event as it gives an impression that ‘Appu’, as Puneet was popularly known, is alive. .
Puneeth Rajkumar was popular as a child artist and acted in many films, but later his work in Kannada film industry made him into the hearts of people. “Appu is alive for all of us,” his office said in a release quoting the chief minister.
Film personalities from Kannada and other South Indian artists such as Yash, Ramesh Aravind, Sai Kumar, Siddhartha, Suriya and Sarathkumar participated in the event. On this occasion, Puneet’s brother Shiv Rajkumar, Raghavendra Rajkumar and other family members were present.
‘Gandha Gudi’ is directed by Amoghavarsha’s PRK Productions, the home banner of the late actor and his wife Ashwini is the producer. Read also: Puneeth Rajkumar to be awarded Karnataka’s highest civilian award posthumously Deets Inside
Meanwhile, Puneeth Rajkumar will be posthumously awarded Karnataka’s highest civilian award, the Karnataka Ratna. He will be felicitated in front of Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on November 1. Disclosing this, Bommai said, till now eight people have been honored with this award, but it was not given to anyone since 2009. It was decided in a meeting. With ministers, senior officials and family members of Puneet.
The Chief Minister said that this award is given in recognition of Puneeth Rajkumar’s contribution to Kannada film sector, Kannada language and culture. Bommai said, “Puneeth Rajkumar is a real Carnatic gem as he has been permanently in the hearts of the people through his achievements during his life. He should always be a source of inspiration for the youth and for this purpose he should The award will be given posthumously.” Told.
About Puneet Rajkumar
Rajkumar passed away in October last year at the age of 46 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He breathed his last at Vikram Hospital in Bangalore. The youngest son of Kannada actor late Dr Rajkumar, Puneeth had established himself as one of the most bankable actors in the Kannada film industry. Apart from his film roles, he was popular among the people for his philanthropic activities.
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(with PTI inputs)