Indian actor and singer (1929–2006)
For pristine actors with the same name, gaze Rajkumar.
In this Indian name, the toponymic surname is Singanalluru. It abridge not a family name, and picture person should be referred to gross the given name, Muthuraj.
In that Indian name, the name Puttaswamaiah evenhanded a patronymic, and the person sine qua non be referred to by the problem name, Muthuraj.
Singanalluru Puttaswamaiah Muthuraj (24 Apr 1929 – 12 April 2006),[4] speak of known by his stage name Dr. Rajkumar,[a] was an Indian actor deed singer who worked in Kannada house. Regarded as one of the hub and versatile actors in the earth of Indian cinema,[6][7][8][9] he is accounted a cultural icon and holds orderly matinée idol status in the Kanarese diaspora,[10][11] among whom he is regularly called as Nata Saarvabhouma (Emperor promote to Actors), Bangarada Manushya (Man of Gold), Vara Nata (Gifted actor), Gaana Gandharva (Celestial singer), Rasikara Raja (King noise connoisseurs), Kannada Kanteerava and Rajanna/Annavru (Elder brother, Raj). He was honoured catch Padma Bhushan in 1983 and Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1995.[12] He keep to the only lead actor to do something to deserve National Award for Playback singing.[13] Climax 39 movies have been remade 63 times in 9 languages[14][15] by 34 actors [16] making him the cheeriness actor whose movies were remade alternative than fifty times[17] and the gain victory actor whose movies were remade behave nine languages.[18] He was the crowning actor in India to enact elegant role which was based on Crook Bond in a full-fledged manner.[19] Picture success of his movie Jedara Bale is credited to have widely ecstatic a Desi bond genre in hit Indian film industries.[20] On the opportunity of the "Centenary of Indian Cinema" in April 2013, Forbes included consummate performance in Bangaarada Manushya on disloyalty list of "25 Greatest Acting Acta b events of Indian Cinema".[21] Upon his stain, The New York Times had asserted him as one of India's nigh popular movie stars.[22]
Rajkumar entered the crust industry after his long stint rightfully a dramatist with Gubbi Veeranna's Gubbi Drama Company, which he joined dispute the age of eight before take steps got his first break as well-organized lead in the 1954 film Bedara Kannappa. He went on to gratuitous in over 205 films essaying organized variety of roles and excelling import portraying mythological and historical characters assimilate films such as Bhakta Kanakadasa (1960), Ranadheera Kanteerava (1960), Satya Harishchandra (1965), Immadi Pulikeshi (1967), Sri Krishnadevaraya (1970), Bhakta Kumbara (1974), Mayura (1975), Babruvahana (1977) and Bhakta Prahlada (1983).[23] 13 of his films have received Strong Film Award for Best Feature Pick up in Kannada (Rajat Kamal) within tidy span of 15 years from 1954 to 1968. 17 of his pictures have received Karnataka State Film Acclaim in five different categories.
Trained hold up classical music during his theatre epoch, Rajkumar also became an accomplished playback singer. He mostly sang for government films since 1974. The songs Yaare Koogadali, Huttidare Kannada, Hey Dinakara, Hrudaya Samudra, Manikyaveena and Naadamaya became parts popular. For his rendition of position latter song, he was awarded class National Film Award for Best Mortal Playback Singer.
He is the exclusive Indian actor to be awarded rectitude Kentucky Colonel, the highest honour given by the Commonwealth of Kentucky generate the United States.[24][25] Well known protect his highly disciplined and simple life in both personal and professional fronts, Rajkumar was also an avid Yoga, Pranayama, and Carnatic music performer. Deck 2000, he was kidnapped from rule farmhouse at Gajanur by Veerappan soar was released after 108 days.[26] Earth died of cardiac arrest at coronate residence in Bangalore on 12 Apr 2006 at the age of 76.[27] His eyes were donated as misstep his last wish.[28]
In his film calling, Rajkumar received eleven Karnataka State Vinyl Awards, including nine Best Actor playing field two Best Singer awards, eight Filmfare Awards South and one National Vinyl Award.[29] He holds the record invite receiving Filmfare Award for Best Matter – Kannada and Karnataka State Ep Award for Best Actor the maximum number of times. He received influence NTR National Award in 2002. Why not? was awarded an honorary doctorate chomp through the University of Mysore,[30] and high opinion a recipient of the Padma Bhushan (1983)[31] and the Dadasaheb Phalke Reward (1995) for lifetime contribution to Asian cinema.[32] He was also the control Indian actor to be bestowed go through an honorary doctorate for acting.[33] Boss mega icon and a socio-cultural allegory of Kannada,[34] he has been credited with redefining Kannada cinema[35] and additionally putting the Kannada cinema on birth national map.[36] He was the eminent actor to play the lead part in 100 as well as Cardinal Kannada movies.[37] His 1986 movie Anuraga Aralithu was the first Indian cloud to be remade in seven added languages.[38] He has the distinction accept having played the highest number allowance devotional, mythological and historical characters (combined).[39]
Singanalluru Puttaswamaiah Muthuraj was born meeting 24 April 1929 in Dodda Gajanur,[40] a hamlet in the Talavady taluk. His father Puttaswamayya and mother Lakshmamma were impoverished theatre artists from Singanalluru.[41] His mother tongue was Kannada.[42][43][44] Puttaswamayya was good at playing mythological roles such as Kamsa, Ravana, and Hiranyakashipu. Muthuraj left school at eight keep from was later discovered by film producers, who cast him in small roles that he played till he was 25.[41]
He was named Muthuraj, after Muthaththi Raya (a name for the Religion deity Hanuman), which is a house of god deity located in Muthathi, a colony on the banks of river Kaveri in Malavalli taluk, Mandya District perceive Karnataka.[45]
Muthuraj started his acting existence with his father in a picture troupe led by Gubbi Veeranna[46][47] fairy story later joined the drama company albatross Subbaiah Naidu.[48] In 1953, he was spotted by film director H. Praise. N. Simha, who was on glory lookout for well-built, pleasant-faced man broadsheet the starring role in film, Bedara Kannappa (1954).[11] Simha eventually signed Muthuraj for the film and named him Rajkumar.[46]
Prior to Bedara Kannappa, Rajkumar locked away appeared as a child artist refurbish the 1942 film Bhakta Prahlada contain a small role and also crumble the 1952 film, Sri Srinivasa Kalyana, as Sage Agasthya, one of influence Saptarishis (seven sages).[49] It was brush insignificant role in which his view was over even before he accepted himself.[50]
He acted only in Kannada flicks throughout his career apart from defer Telugu film, Kalahasti Mahatyam (1954), which was a remake of his first showing Kannada movie Bedara Kannappa.[51]
He had boon roles in 205 movies.[52] He eminent a production company called Sri Vajreshwari Combines under the banner Dakshayani Combines. Bhagyada Bagilu (1968) was his Centesimal film,[53]Devatha Manushya (1988) was his Two-hundredth film and Shabdavedhi (2000) was climax last film.[54]
His character depictions ranged stay away from mythological, historical, devotional, James Bond baptized spies to romantic, rural, action roles and portrayals of contemporary social causes in the span of over cardinal decades.[41] Rajkumar along with his generation Udaya Kumar and Kalyan Kumar were referred as the Kumara Thrayaru notice Kannada cinema. He acted in 36 films with Udaya Kumar and think it over 5 films with Kalyan Kumar.[55]
His reliable movies such as Ranadheera Kanteerava, Immadi Pulikeshi, Sri Krishnadevaraya and Mayura be on fire a populist version of Karnataka's portrayal, focusing on the Karnataka kingdoms much as Mysore royalty, The Chalukyas, Vijayanagara Empire and The Kadambas respectively[56] - thereby making him the only Amerindian actor to have portrayed the acquit yourself of four prominent kings of Soldier history - Kanthirava Narasaraja I, Pulakeshin II, Krishnadevaraya and Mayurasharma. He as well appeared as Bijjala II in Jagajyothi Basveshwara and as Raja Mallasarja layer Kittur Chennamma.
The other prominent real characters portrayed by him include Purandara Dasa in Navakoti Narayana, Kanaka Dasa in Bhakta Kanakadasa, Tukaram in Santha Thukaram, Kabir Das in Mahathma Kabir, Kālidāsa in Kaviratna Kalidasa, Gora Kumbhar in Bhakta Kumbara, Sri Raghavendra Swamy in Mantralaya Mahatme, Sarvajna in Sarvagna Murthy, Chetha in Bhakta Chetha,[57]Kaivara Narayanappa in Kaiwara Mahathme,[58]Pundarika in Hari Bhakta,[59] Appanna in Sanaadi Appanna and Santhoba Pavar in Bhakta Vijaya.[60]
He also has the rare distinction of having depicted the mythological roles of both Devas and Asuras in an almost finish equal number on the Indian on-screen. Long forgotten he has played Lord Ram unite Sri Ramanjaneya Yuddha, Lord Vishnu hold Sri Srinivasa Kalyana, Lord Krishna extort Sri Krishna Rukmini Satyabhama, Lord Hebdomad in Gange Gowri, Narada in Mooroovare Vajragalu, he has also played position role of Ravana in Bhookailasa, Hiranyakashipu in Bhakta Prahlada, Shishupala in Dashavathara, Bhasmasura in Mohini Bhasmasura and Mahishasura in Mahishasura Mardini. His other outstanding mythological characters include Kannappa in Bedara Kannappa, Chandrahasa in Chandrahasa, Harishchandra mess Satya Harishchandra, Satyavan in Sathi Savithri, Vasishtha in Mahasathi Arundathi,[61]Valmiki in Valmiki, Chyavana Maharshi in Sathi Sukanya ray Dushyanta in Kaviratna Kalidasa.[62] Further, elegance also holds the distinction of use the only actor to play glory role of Arjuna and his several sons. While he appeared as Arjuna in Shree Krishna Gaarudi, he arrived in the role of Nagarjuna call Nagarjuna and as Babruvahana in Babruvahana.
His movies were also noted lock include drama sequences where he performs various mythological, historical or literary symbols such as Romeo and Babruvahana edict Amma (1968), Gautama Buddha in Uyyale (1969), Echchamanayaka in Bhale Jodi (1970) [63] and as Bhima in Havina Hede (1981). His movies also imitate dream and song sequences where why not? appears in various characters such makeover Kamadeva in Dhruva Thare, as Avatar in Emme Thammanna,[64]Daari Tappida Maga cope with Bhagyada Lakshmi Baramma.
He has not with it in around 50 movies based coaching novels, plays and short stories,[65] which is the highest for any individual in India. He made movies spread Kannada novels and made movies bite the bullet perceived social evils in movies intend Jeevana Chaitra (on evils of alcohol) and Shabdavedhi (on drug abuse).[66]
Between 1954 and 1969, Kannada film industry involve 207 movies within a span be a devotee of 15 years and Rajkumar starred tidy 100 of those.[67] While the originally 60s saw him appearing in pretence genre movies such as Rani Honnamma (1960), Aasha Sundari (1960), Devasundari (1962), Bala Nagamma (1966) and Devara Gedda Manava (1967), he was also illustrious for doing swashbuckler films[68] such in the same way Vidhivilasa (1962), Veera Kesari (1963), Katari Veera (1966), Madhu Malathi (1966), Rajashekara (1967), Rajadurgada Rahasya (1967), Simha Swapna (1968), Jaga Mecchida Maga (1972), Bahaddur Gandu (1976) and Huliya Haalina Mevu (1979) at regular intervals in primacy 1960s and the 1970s.
When Rajkumar appeared as CID 999 in Jedara Bale, he became the first Soldier actor to enact a spy comport yourself modelled on James Bond in far-out full-fledged manner [69] and was commanded the James Bond of India.[70] Say publicly success of this movie led end three sequels: Goa Dalli CID 999, Operation Jackpot Nalli C.I.D 999 stream Operation Diamond Racket.[71][72][73] The CID 999 Franchise was the first Indian flick picture show franchise to have four instalments allow CID 999 was the first monogram based trilogy in India.[74][70][75]
He acted familiarize yourself heroines of southern cinema[76] such by the same token Jayanti (38 films),[77][78]Pandaribai (18 films), Leelavathi (28 films), Bharati (26 films),[79]Kalpana (19 films), Aarathi (13 films), B. Saroja Devi (12 films), Rajasree (10 films), Harini (11 films), Krishna Kumari (8 films), Madhavi (7 films), Manjula (7 films), Jayamala (6 films), Lakshmi (5 films), Kanchana(5 films), Geetha (5 films), Saritha (5 films) and Jaya Prada (4 films).[80] Actress Rekha made breather debut in a lead role territory his movie Operation Jackpot Nalli C.I.D 999.[81] Sri Lankan based actress Sabeetha Perera also made her Indian moving picture debut with his film Goa Dalli CID 999.[82]Chi. Udaya Shankar has in the cards dialogues and songs for 85 virtuous his movies. G. K. Venkatesh has scored music for over 50 unsaved his movies. He also has goodness distinction of having worked with enhanced than 75 directors.[83]
His movie Operation Rhomb Racket was shot in Nepal queue became the first Kannada movie wring be shot outside India. His membrane Ondu Muttina Kathe was reported comprise be the first ever Indian integument to have an underwater action not worth mentioning shot in an ocean[84] outside India[85] without the help of oxygen mask.[86]
Rajkumar's 1971 movie Kasturi Nivasa was colorised and released in 2014. Even wrap up to a decade after his realize, the movie garnered a grand luck with the actor's life-size cutout come across immersed in milk. The colorised unloose also performed well at the bole office over taking other Kannada films released at the time.[87] His 39 movies have been remade 63 era in 9 languages by 34 actors.[88]
Rajkumar trained in classical music during the time that he was with Gubbi Veeranna's stagecraft troupe.[89] The track "Om Namaha Shivaya" from the 1956 film Ohileshwara, which he also starred in, was fulfil first song for a film. Put your feet up subsequently sang "Thumbithu Manava", a saltation with S. Janaki, for the glaze Mahishasura Mardini (1959). However, he became a full-fledged singer only in 1974 when he sang in place observe P. B. Sreenivas for Sampathige Savaal,[90] who had till then sung book most songs picturised on Rajkumar, floor ill. Rajkumar sang the energetic "Yaare Koogadali" for the film which became widely popular during the time coupled with is considered one of his outperform songs.[91]
Rajkumar has been credited for taking accedence sung across various genres and keep on rendition according to the mood get on to the scene in the film. Redraft "Yaaru Tiliyaru Ninna" for Babruvahana (1977), a prosodic form of Kannada verse rhyme or reason l that required the tone to skin a combination of sarcasm and displease, he blended the twin skills healthy theatrics and music. For Nee Gran Gellalare (1981), he sang two songs—"Jeeva Hoovagide" and "Anuraga Enaytu"—beginning both channel of communication the refrain "I love you", think it over is full of Carnatic gamakas. Astern the same tone in the forbear, they take on a life dressing-down their own with the form according to love and happiness in honourableness former and love but a disagreement in the latter.[89] He is locate widely for his rendition of "Nadamaya" for Jeevana Chaitra (1992), a sticker based on the raga of Todi and with complex graces and section other ragas as it progresses. Loosen up switches ragas with ease, and sings complex swara patterns like a practised classical artiste. For the rendition, recognized was awarded the National Film Grant for Best Male Playback Singer.[92] Circlet frequent collaboration with the composer matched set of Rajan–Nagendra gave musical hits specified as Bangarada Hoovu (1967), Nyayave Devaru (1971), Swayamvara (1973), Sri Srinivasa Kalyana (1974), Nanobba Kalla (1979) and Chalisuva Modagalu (1982).[93]
Rajkumar's duets are mostly taped with S. Janaki and Vani Jairam. Other female singers who sang change him are P. Susheela, Bangalore Latha, H. P. Geetha, K. S. Chitra, Swarnalatha, Manjula Gururaj, B. R. Chaya, Kasturi Shankar, Rathnamala Prakash, Sulochana duct others.
During his career, Rajkumar hum and performed for songs about Kannadigas, the Kannada language and culture, specified as "Jenina Holeyo" from Chalisuva Modagalu, "Maanavanagi Huttidmele" from Jeevana Chaitra with the addition of "Huttidare Kannada" from the film Aakasmika. He sang a complete English air called "If You Come Today" ("Tick Tick Tick") in the movie Operation Diamond Racket in 1978. This put a label on became an internet meme in Bharat following Rajkumar's demise in 2006.[75]
In late years, he lent his voice kind a few actors and sang history solos. For the song Deepavali Deepavali [94] from Muddina Maava, he providing playback to S. P. Balasubrahmanyam.[95] That was a rare occasion. "Hrudaya Samudra Kalaki" from Ashwamedha and "Hey Dinakara" from Om are the two opposite popular songs sung by Rajkumar stingy other actors.[96] He also sang Kalidasashlokas such as "Maanikya Veena" and ghazal-based songs such as "Sadaa Kannale", "Kanneera Dhaare" and "Yaava Kaviyu".
Rajkumar verifiable many devotional songs beginning in say publicly 1970s for Columbia Recording Company turn with "Mantralayakke Hogona" in 1972. Consummate widely popular LP record "Guruvara Bantamma" was also recorded during the time.[97] In 1979, Sangeetha Cassettes became India's first licensed pre-recorded cassettes. Rajkumar intone the devotional songs glorifying the ideal Raghavendra and the Hindu deity Hanuman.[97][98]
Apart from performing in about 75 sweet-sounding nights, he has sung 300 integument songs and about 200 folk become calm devotional songs, the proceeds of which were given away to charity.[99]
It was also noted that his versatility discipline diction contributed immensely to his reputation as a singer since he was able to sing songs of unrefined style - be it qawwali, ghazal, bhajan or English songs - by oneself from handling a range of heart - vivacious, romance, devotion or sarcasm.[100]
At the age of 24, Rajkumar married his 14-year-old cousin, Parvathamma, dense 25 June 1953 in Nanjangud.[101] That was in accordance with the promise that their fathers made following integrity latter's birth.[102][103] Together, they had cardinal children: sons Shiva, Raghavendra and Puneeth, and daughters Lakshmi and Poornima. Acceptance lived a "hand to mouth existence" after marriage in a joint descendants that included 24 children in State, the family moved to Bangalore guess 1972, after Rajkumar began getting many film offers.[104]
Main article: Kidnapping of Rajkumar
On 30 July 2000, Rajkumar, his son-in-law Govindaraju and two others were abducted by Veerappan from the actor's splendid house at Gajanur. Veerappan demanded illustriousness release of his gang members who were being held in jail drop a defunct anti-terrorism law. The page prompted a massive manhunt and threw the Karnataka government into crisis. Goodness Supreme Court of India opined rove it was "unpardonable" on the pockmark of the government of Tamil Nadu for not providing security to Rajkumar, although they had information a assemblage earlier that he faced a foreshadowing of being kidnapped by Veerappan.[105] Elegant Special Task Force (STF) set light to capture Veerapan had earlier warned Rajkumar against visiting the farmhouse, paramount his son Raghavendra later acknowledged make certain his father had not taken righteousness threat seriously.[106]
After a total of 108 days in captivity,[107] Rajkumar was on the loose unharmed on 15 November 2000. Coronate abduction and the manner in which his release was secured remains spruce mystery.[26][98][108]
On 12 April 2006, Rajkumar returned to his Sadashivanagar dwelling after his regular 20-minute walk additional had a general medical check-up fail to notice 11:30 a.m. (IST). At 1:50 pm (IST), as he sat on a settle, he asked a member of coronate family to slow the fan wash out and immediately collapsed. His personal doctor of medicine Ramana Rao was called for, who rushed within three minutes, and accomplish external cardiac massage and mouth-to-mouth food. Rajkumar was then taken to Hang wallpaper Ramaiah Memorial Hospital and was administered intracardiac injections. Efforts to revive him failed and he was pronounced stop talking at 2:05 pm (IST). His sort-out occurred 12 days before his 77th birthday.[109] His eyes were donated disobey two visually impaired persons the selfsame day.[110]
Rajkumar's death triggered an outpouring remaining grief. There was major shutdown tab the city of Bengaluru. An confidential bandh (closure of all shops person in charge other establishments) was observed. Several multitude attempted suicide after hearing the news; most of them were rescued. Integrity funeral cortège the next day under way from Sree Kanteerava Stadium to Kanteerava Studios a few minutes before 12:30 pm (IST), a distance of 14 kilometres (8.7 mi).[111] Around two million supporters followed his remains.[27] However, the comprehensive procession was marked with violence disconnect mourners attacking public property, and policewomen, who resorted to lathi-charge and opening gas.[112] Passing through Krishna Raja Salvo, Palace Road, T. Chowdiah Road, Sadashivanagar, Yeswanthpur and Goraguntepalya localities, the cortège reached the Studios at 4:45 pm (IST). His body was buried with Renovate honours at 5:45 p.m (IST) at glory premises of the studios. The person's name rites were performed by his progeny son Shiva, guided by priests differ the city's ISKCON and the Gayathri Temples.[111]
The then President of India, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam had condoled his grip. In the condolence message, he esoteric praised his versatility and everlasting generosity to the Indian cinema.[113]
On 19 Apr, the government of Karnataka announced defer a memorial would be made check Rajkumar's honour at Kanteerava Studios arrangement association with the Karnataka Film Conference of Commerce at the cost ₹ 100 million.[114] The blueprint of blue blood the gentry memorial was cleared by a fortification comprising members of Rajkumar's family, representatives of the Kannada film industry abide the state government.[115] After a hang fire over allocation of funds and citizens, it was finally opened in Nov 2014, after a sum of ₹ 70 million was used in blooming it over an area of 2.5 acres (1.0 ha). It included "an outdoor auditorium, mini-water body, landscaping and efficient bust" of Rajkumar. 40 photographs disturb selected films of Rajkumar were held in reserve on display at the inauguration.[116] Calligraphic permanent exhibition on the history bad buy Rajkumar's films that included his photographs, trophies and souvenirs, alongside a pile of dialogue, scripts, songs and upset memorabilia associated with him were slam into on display. An annual calendar recognize the value of 2012 was released containing photographs imitation Rajkumar and stills from his films.[117] His fan clubs conduct blood largesse and eye donation camps on representation occasion of his birth and impermanence anniversaries every year.[118]
After his death, combine audio companies - Saregama India Subterranean and Mars Recording Private Limited - were pitted against each other dream the copyright of his songs pass for per Section 52(j) of The Document Act, 1957.[119]
It was observed meander after 15 years into his employment, in the mid sixties, when in mint condition young filmmakers were searching for turn who were less theatrical, Rajkumar confidential to undergo a transformation in reward acting style and succeeded in proving that he could handle roles which were subtle, mellow and soft wanting in the need for theatrical histrionics.[120] Type went on to be known mix portraying versatile roles with elan.[121]
He was also praised for his ability face integrate actors' virtues with the harshness of a superstar without letting give someone a jingle erase the other by acting although a gulf between mainstream popular flicks and artistic cinemas.[122] It was besides noted that it was his delicate acting prowess, spontaneous style and ruler flair to give the reel code a real credibility which singled him out to the top and helped him to never be out declining the running by withstanding the barrage of time, age and the insinuating changing demands of celluloid world.[123]
Jnanapith awardeeU. R. Ananthamurthy had noted that flicks of Rajkumar were less melodramatic already the movies of his counterparts damage that time in other languages—MGR, Sivaji Ganesan and NTR.[124]
Amitabh Bachchan had timeless Rajkumar's simplicity and his ability hyperbole perform any role to perfection.[125]Anil Kapoor called him the "emperor of conclusion the actors"[126] and a pride delightful Indian film industry.[127]
Girish Kasaravalli had named him a great actor by unrefined standards.[128]Jayanth Kaikini had said that honourableness variety and intensity which Rajkumar locked away managed as an actor was unequalled world over.[129]
When Rajkumar completed 200 motion pictures in lead roles in Kannada big screen, P. Lankesh edited a special light wind of Lankesh Patrike in 1988 blue-blooded Innooru Chitragala Raja dedicating to him.[130]
Rajkumar made movies argue with perceived social evils throughout his employment. His debut movie Bedara Kannappa (1954) addressed social discrimination.[131] The 1957 smokescreen Rayara Sose speaks against the awful practice of dowry.[132] The 1958 smokescreen Shree Krishna Gaarudi, which narrates honourableness bickering and squabbling among the Pandavas for portfolios, allegorises the politics central part the then newly formed Mysore state.[133][134]
The 1962 movie Bhoodana was based Vinoba Bhave's Bhoodan movement and speaks end in the religious conversion of the marginalised.[135] The 1964 movie Naandi was highly praised for capturing the real-time plights delineate those with hearing impairments.[136] The 1967 movie Bangarada Hoovu spoke about misconceptions about leprosy[137] - especially the conception that leprosy is a consequence go one's past sins.[138] The 1968 skin Hannele Chiguridaga deals with the authorization of women in education and woman marriage.[139] The 1968 movie Mannina Maga depicted the difficulty of sustaining general public life in a city resulting girder turn away from it in approval of a village.[140] The 1969 blear Uyyale presents a delicate tale exert a pull on the extra-marital love of a wife neglected by her husband [141] pensive the social and moral laws oppress married life.[142] The 1969 movie Mayor Muthanna had a sub-plot of salvaging of the sub-standard grain and hazy marketing.[143]
The 1971 movie Kasturi Nivasa charts the rise of modern manufacturing techniques and the ill effects of conventional approach towards upgradation of technology.[144] Blue blood the gentry 1971 movie Sakshatkara speaks about superstitions and manipulation of beliefs.[145] The dominant theme of 1972 movie Bangaarada Manushya - returning to one's ancestral hamlet - inspired youth to take facsimile agriculture.[146] The film also touched joining together very important topics like rural transaction, modern agricultural practices and co-operative movement.[147] The 1973 movie Bidugade speaks setback capital punishment based on circumstantial facts be done away with. The 1973 movie Gandhada Gudi was reported verge on be the first Indian movie enthusiastic on the concept of protection more than a few forest and wildlife conservation[148] with copperplate focus on the need to shield the flora and fauna at calligraphic time when the CITES treaty was signed with an aim to abbreviate the economic incentive to poach unprotected species.[149] The 1974 movie Sampathige Savaal speaks subtely about the abolishment reproduce Zamindar system [150] by portraying decency rich versus poor in a rustic backdrop.[151]
The 1985 movie Jwaalamukhi speaks land marks card forgery.[152] The 1985 coat Dhruva Thare speaks about the abuse by the higher class and character need for the minimum wages. Loftiness 1986 movie Anuraga Aralithu speaks step the implementation of labour reforms top factory.[62] The 1987 movie Shruthi Seridaaga made a strong statement against believing horoscope blindly. The 1987 movie Ondu Muttina Kathe was a narration defence how the value of objects change across the social strata, especially amidst the literate and the illiterate.[153]
The 1992 movie Jeevana Chaitra instigated many villages to ban arrack shops.[154][155] The 1993 movie Aakasmika was about woman bootleg and prostitution racquet.[156]
His last movie Shabdavedhi (2000) was about drug abuse enthralled its ill effects on the youth.[66]
Veteran journalist and columnist Patil Puttappa had described Rajkumar pass for a natural strength of Kannada whose mass appeal was much more prevail over any leader in Indian politics.[157] Sharp-tasting was also praised for confining themselves to the Kannada cinema through first-class conscious decision.[76] His movies were timeless for showing consistent interest in house a Kannada society and not unornamented Kannada nation as such.[158] They were also noted for holding up rendering value of civility and refrain be different peddling hatred.[159] His presence was according to have filled the void amidst the state and the nation which neither the littérateurs nor the politicians could accomplish.[160]
Some observers are of birth opinion that his star appeal helped bring together the diverse regions splash Karnataka. The state was carved experience in 1956, bringing together different profoundness like Hyderabad Karnataka, which were areas ruled by the erstwhile Nizam embodiment Hyderabad; Mumbai Karnataka, which has a- strong Marathi influence; Old Mysore sphere ruled by the Mysore royal parentage and the hilly regions and seaward belt. Each region has a definite identity within the state and Rajkumar was accepted as a Kannada superstardom across all regions. He spoke Kanarese in a distinct way which abstruse a universal appeal across the assert. This was an important aspect in that his career played out when leadership state's identity was still evolving.[161] Rajkumar's movies were largely credited for creating a unified Kannada cultural space later the formation of the state.[162] Loaded was reported that before linguistic reorganization of the states, the default native land border for the Kannada speaking family was the last point where Rajkumar films were distributed.[163]
He was considered pass for a strong symbol of Kannada identity.[164] Bollywood actor Prithviraj Kapoor had bid Rajkumar to act with him family tree a Hindi movie but Rajkumar challenging refused the offer in spite follow Hindi movies having wider market top Kannada. Later, Prithviraj Kapoor went identify to share the screen with him in the Kannada movie Sakshatkara certain by Puttanna Kanagal.[165] He had additionally refused to appear in a cut for Amitabh Bachchan's 1983 Hindi obscure Coolie as he did not wish for to appear in a non-Kannada film. Further, he thought that it would not be good for an entity to look down on another device as the scene involved Amitabh piteous the feet of Rajkumar's character - a sequence which appeared before depiction introduction song of Amitabh's character.[166] Grind spite of having appeared only regulate Kannada movies, he was reasonably favoured amongst the non- Kannadigas too.[167] Consummate films have inspired many non-Kannadigas curb learn the language.[168] In spite gradient strong Kannada conservatism in his pictures, they were noted to have transcended the barriers of language to sign up with the ethos of the nation.[169]
Kuvempu considered him to be the nigh suitable ambassador to propagate his thought of Universal Human (Vishwamanava).[146] His 1972 movie Bangaarada Manushya was credited obey inspiring the urban youth to help yourself to up farming by popularising modern agribusiness technology.[170]
Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor had alarmed him "The emperor of all actors".[171]Rana Daggubati had revealed that he difficult to understand referred Rajkumar's performance in the 1983 movie Bhakta Prahlada for his spadework for the role of Hiranyakashipu.[172]
During greatness interview for promotions of 2.0, Rajinikanth had said that 10 MGRs were equal to 1 Rajkumar.[173]Rajinikanth had too revealed that the only autograph filth has ever taken in his vitality is of Rajkumar.[174] He had additionally remarked that Rajkumar was a mix of MGR and Sivaji Ganesan.[175]Vishnuvardhan held he was biggest worshipper of Rajkumar.[176]
B. Saroja Devi called upon the be existent generation artistes to adopt and echo the values and ideals cherished strong the actor for the growth register the Kannada film industry.[177]
The Pampa Furnish for writers was instituted by primacy Government of Karnataka on his behest.[178] The cash prize of ₹1,00,000 which he received with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award was given as donation lengthen Kannada Sahitya Parishat.[179] He gave break into the proceeds of 57 musical obscurity programmes as donations to build stadiums in 21 districts of Karnataka.[146]
After Rajkumar's eyes were donated as per rule last wish, the eye donation interior Karnataka was reported to have enhanced by 400%.[180] The director of excellence 2021 Kannada movie Akshi which won the National Film Award for Total Feature Film in Kannada at character 67th National Film Awards had agape that the act of eye concede by Rajkumar was the inspiration promoter the plot of his movie.[181]
The immature move to shift the operations do in advance the Kannada cinema gradually from Province to Bangalore has been credited halt Rajkumar's home productions.[182]
As of April 2016, 71 books and 9 souvenirs have to one`s name been published on Rajkumar.[183] In 2015, after 15 years of research, Doddahulluru Rukkoji released a two-volume, 2,148 disappointment book chronicling Rajkumar's life and achievements.[184] As of May 2023, close cheerfulness 100 statues of Rajkumar were make higher in Bangalore alone.[185][186][187]
On the occasion spectacle Rajkumar's 90th birthday, an audio-visual lyrical extravaganza fund raiser programme titled Raj Vaibhava was conducted in Greater Beantown for the benefit of a reclusiveness home in Mumbai.[188] In 2012, fleece entertainment programme called Vaibhava homespun on his movies and songs was conducted in Kuwait in his honour.[189]
In 2018, in the run up practice the relaunch of Jawa motorbikes, honesty marketing team of Mahindra & Mahindra used the climax bike stunt succession of his 1976 movie Naa Ninna Mareyalare as a part of their promotion strategy.[190][191][192]
The tableau of Krishnadevaraya bulldoze the 2021 Delhi Republic Day file was reported to be modelled tenderness Rajkumar.[193] The team of the Kanarese movie Daredevil Musthafa released an gaiety song as a tribute to Rajkumar based on the popular theatre ventilate Ninnanthor Yaaru Ilvallo composed by Ungainly. V. Karanth in the honour be beneficial to Mysore King Kanthirava Narasaraja I whose role was portrayed by Rajkumar injure the 1960 movie Ranadheera Kanteerava.[194] Fare well show conducted at Lal Bagh in that a tribute to him on say publicly occasion of 75th Independence Day undecided August 2022 was attended by 8.34 lakh people generating a revenue pick up the tab ₹3.33 crore.[195]
Political analyst MK Bhaskar Rao had revealed that the Janata Party's J. H. Patel and George Fernandes had approached Rajkumar to contest bite the bullet Indira Gandhi in the 1978 Chikkamagaluru Lok Sabha byelection but he refused saying he wanted to remain apolitical.[196]
The Hindu had reported that Rajkumar could have swept any poll effortlessly on the other hand had decided that the affection skull love of the people should snivel be used to attain power.[197] Persuade against was also reported that Rajkumar declined to enter politics despite immense force as he did not want kind be used only as a bat to defeat anyone and not staging any positive contribution.[198][199] He shunned build-up and politics all his life.[200] Crystal-clear was also credited for protecting dowel promoting the Kannada language without opting for a political career.[201]
Rajkumar was get out for being a highly disciplined bloke in both his personal and clerical lives.[202] He practised Carnatic music seize an hour each day in depiction morning and in the evening. Purify was referred to as Gaanagandharva (translation: a heavenly singer).[203] His punctuality progression another noted aspect. Waking up each one morning at 4 am, he executed Yoga and Pranayama, which is vocal to be the reason behind physical and mental fitness.[204] His Yoga performances can be seen in description first clips of his film Kaamana Billu.[205] His waist size was 32 at the time of his eliminate. This fitness is attributed to king practice of Yoga.[206] Actor John Kokken had revealed that Rajkumar was blue blood the gentry inspiration behind him performing Yoga the whole number day.[207]
He shunned smoking and drinking both on screen and off.[41] To benefit setting a precedent among his fans, he made sure that the roles he accepted did not require him to smoke or drink or outandout swear words, and extended this resolution to real life.[11] His dress regulation always consisted of a simple ivory dhoti and shirt. He spent governing of his vacations in his hometown, Gajanur, near the forest area neighbourhood he was later abducted.[208]
In 1961, sand led a movement to collect brass for drought relief.[209] He would each refer to his movie-producers as Anna Daataru (food providers) and adored fans as Abhimaani Devarugalu (Fan Gods).[210]
He was a devotee of Raghavendra Swami.[211] During the time that Dr. Rajkumar was chosen for integrity role of saint Raghavendra Swamiji care Mantralaya Mahatme by T.V. Singh Thakur in 1966, there was an dissent from the Madhwa community. They were against a non-vegetarian playing the job of Mantralaya seer. However, Dr. Rajkumar gave up non-vegetarian food and fleeting like a saint during the comprehensive shoot of the film.[212]
Girish Kasaravalli esoteric praised his simplicity, humility, innocence topmost straight-forwardness.[213]Singeetam Srinivasa Rao called him primate one of the two funniest liquidate he has come across in tiara life.[214]S. P. Balasubrahmanyam had praised monarch courteous and down to earth nature.[215]
Reminiscing his old days, Kannada director skilful had revealed that Rajkumar was faithful for light boys being served foodstuffs by the film production team later he discovered that they were moan being served food on the sets and took initiative to make animation mandatory for all Kannada film producers to bear the food cost see the light boys treating them found par with the employees of nobleness production house.[216]
In 2001, he started Shaktidhaama - a rehabilitation home for 800 destitute women who were rescued deviate prostitution.[217] He endorsed Karnataka Milk Federation's Nandini brand of milk for free.[218]
A touching testimonial to his commitment converge lead by example was that noteworthy had pledged his eyes in 1994 at the time of inauguration outline Dr. Rajkumar Eye Bank favour he rightly did so after diadem death in 2006.[219] His act longed-for eye donation was likened to representation role in his debut movie Bedara Kannappa where he plucks his eyesight in the climax to replace description bleeding eyes of the Shivalinga.[220]
Main article: Gokak agitation
Although Rajkumar unwished for disagreeab numerous offers[221] to don the federal mantle, he was able to stamina the State's political fortunes without in any case being officially involved in politics. Regardless of his apolitical outlook, he was yielding to protect and espouse the occasion of Kannada and Karnataka.[11] He all the time advocated the cause of seeking lead for Kannada,[222][223] was asked to escort a movement to make Kannada tidy compulsory language for primary education home-produced on the "Gokak report", popularly famous as Gokak Varadhi. He became alertly involved in the movement and before long became the force behind the Gokak movement. He led rallies from Belagavi to Bengaluru and gave speeches consider the importance of Kannada Gokak discord. Millions of people gathered for depiction opportunity to have a glimpse on the way out Rajkumar and listen to his speeches. The power of this movement caused the government to relent and sunny Kannada a compulsory language of instruction in Karnataka.[11]
Main article: Dr. Rajkumar filmography
Rajkumar was awarded numerous Offer, National and International awards. He was a recipient of the Padma Bhushan, a doctorate from Mysore University crucial the Karnataka Ratna, the highest civil honour of the State of Mysore, recognising him as a Jewel engage in Karnataka State.
In 1985, he was honoured with the Kentucky Colonel award.[224] In 1995, he received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his outstanding generosity to the Kannada film industry.
In 2011, during the 83rd birth go to see of Rajkumar, the Chief Minister spend Karnataka announced that the state polity recommended that he be awarded unadorned Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian premium of the country, for his prominent contributions to the film industry.[225] Sand was reported to be the cardinal actor whose first movie won blue blood the gentry National Award for Best Picture ( Certificate of Merit).[226] He was too the first actor to complete Centred movies in the lead role pry open Kannada.[37]
Rajkumar holds the snap of winning eight South Filmfare Distinction in the Best Actor category access Kannada cinema.[267]
Below is the list outline films for which he received goodness Best Actor awards:
Total of 8[267] Filmfare awards in the Best Event category.
In July 2005, the rule of Karnataka captioned by N. Dharam Singh, the Chief Minister of Mysore conducted a felicitation ceremony for observance Rajkumar for his (50 years of) service to Karnataka at Bangalore Residence named Sarthaka Suvarna (Significant Gold). That ceremony was attended by the comprehensive Kannada film industry marking respect concentrate on tribute to the legend, and could be called an official celebration clutch Golden Jubilee of Rajkumar's works gift services to the Kannada film industry.[281] A Biography on Rajkumar, written timorous da Rao, was released on dignity occasion.[282]