Rajkumar

Rajkumar Biography

Rajkumar was one of the veteran actors and singers of Kannada film industry. He is considered a cultural icon of Kannada and one of the most respected personalities of Karnataka. He is popularly called Gaana Gandharva, Rajanna, Natasarvabhouma and Annavru (beloved elder brother). He is a recipient of numerous awards including – National awards, State awards and Filmfare. He has also received Padma Bhushan and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1995) for his contributions to Indian cinema. He was also awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Mysore. On July 30, 2000, at the age of 72, Rajkumar, with two other members of his family were abducted by Veerappan from the actor's palatial house at Gajanur. It drew media attention worldwide. Rajkumar was released unharmed on November 15, 2000. He was held for 108 days in Veerappan’s custody and till now the mystery is not unfolded how this release took place. He died on 12 April 2006 (aged 76) at Bangalore.  

Dr. Raj Kumar was born as Mutturaju on April 24, 1929 at Gajanur of Tamil Nadu – Karnataka border. His father, Singanalluru Puttaswamayya was a theatre artist. Rajkumar was a school drop and he started his career in movies since 8 years old. He continued doing minor roles till 25. Rajkumar acted only in Kannada movies throughout his life, except one Telugu movie - Kalahasti Mahatyam remake of his own movie, Bedara Kannappa. Throughout his career he has worked in more than 200 movies. Bedara Kannappa was his first noted movie as a leading star.  Rajkumar was equally successful as a playback singer also and has won National awards for male playback singer for the song - "Naadamaya Ee Lokavella" from the movie Jeevana Chaitra in 1992. He received the NTR National Award in 2002.

Rajkumar received nine Karnataka State Film Awards, eight South Filmfare Awards, two National Film Awards and a National Film Award for Best Playback Singer.  His award winning films as an actor include - Gandhada Gudi, Mayura, Shankar Guru, Keralida Simha, Haalu Jenu, Druvatare and Aakasmika.

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Updated: October 25, 2013