Fans, celebrities pay tribute on Dr Rajkumar’s 97th birth anniversary

Fans, celebrities pay tribute on Dr Rajkumar’s 97th birth anniversary

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, Apr 25, 2026: A sea of ardent fans and the echoes of iconic Kannada melodies filled the air at the Kanteerava Studio premises on Friday as the state celebrated the 97th birth anniversary of legendary matinee idol Dr Rajkumar.

The Department of Information and Public Relations organised a formal ceremony at Dr Rajkumar Punyabhoomi, where family members, politicians, and Sandalwood celebrities gathered to pay tribute to the legend. Fans from across the state travelled to Bengaluru to pay their respects at the memorial, which was beautifully decorated with flowers.

Dr Rajkumar’s son Raghavendra Rajkumar and his wife performed a special puja at the memorial. Speaking to the media, family members and close associates fondly remembered the simplicity that defined the superstar despite his immense fame.

“His popularity grew, but his simplicity grew even faster,” said a fan, Raju. “Whether it was a major event or a small gathering, he was always seen in his trademark white shirt and dhoti. He wasn’t just an actor; he was the soul of Karnataka.”

Music director and actor Sadhu Kokila highlighted Dr Rajkumar’s immense contribution to both cinema and social causes. “He was a master of Carnatic, Hindustani, and even Ghazals. I witnessed him record ‘Manikyaveena,’ a complex Raga Malika featuring nine different ragas, in a single take. His technical knowledge was so sharp that he could pinpoint a single wrong note in a 3,000-member hall,” he said.

Kokila also expressed concern over the current state of the Kannada film industry, saying, “Today, we feel like orphans. We have lost our leader, our father figure, and our guide. There will never be another like him.”

The event also highlighted how Dr Rajkumar’s films such as ‘Gandhada Gudi’ and ‘Bangarada Manushya’ played a significant role in promoting forest conservation and inspiring youth to return to agriculture. His pivotal role in the Gokak Movement was also remembered as a defining moment for the Kannada language.

Actor-producer Raghavendra Rajkumar paid floral tributes at the memorial during the celebration. MLA Gopalaiah was also present on the occasion.

The Punyabhoomi remained crowded throughout the day, with fans of all ages braving the heat to pay homage. For many, the memorial has become more of a temple than a resting place.

“Even if the world ends, the legacy of Rajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar will remain rooted in this soil,” said a longtime fan. “He taught us how to live, how to love our language, and how to respect every human being, no matter how small.”