Puneeth Rajkumar: Difference between revisions

What links here Related changes Page information Get shortened URL
Created by Kannadaguy
Last edited August 17, 2023
← Older editNewer edit →
VisualWikitext
Updated the page
Kannadaguy (talk | contribs)
816 edits
No edit summary
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|Indian actor}}
{{pp|small=yes}}
{{Short description|Indian Kannada actor and producer}}
{{Indian name|Puneeth|Rajkumar}}
{{Indian name|Puneeth|Rajkumar}}
{{Use Indian English|date=January 2017}}
{{Use Indian English|date=January 2017}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2021}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name               = Puneeth Rajkumar
| name         = Puneeth Rajkumar
| image             = Puneeth Rajkumar (cropped).jpg
| image       = Puneeth Rajkumar (cropped).jpg
| caption           =  
| caption     =  
| birth_name         = Lohit Rajkumar
| birth_name   = Lohith Rajkumar
| birth_date         = {{birth-date|17 March 1975}}
| birth_date   = {{birth-date|17 March 1975}}
| birth_place       = [[Chennai]], [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]]
| birth_place = [[Madras]] (now Chennai), [[Tamil Nadu]], India
| death_date = {{Death date and age|2021|10|29|1975|03|17|df=yes}}
| death_date   = {{Death date and age|2021|10|29|1975|03|17|df=yes}}
| death_place       = [[Bengaluru]], [[Karnataka]], [[India]]
| death_place = [[Bangalore]], [[Karnataka]], India
| occupation         = {{hlist|Actor|singer|producer|television presenter}}
| occupation   = {{hlist|Actor|singer|producer|television presenter}}
| other_names       = Appu
| other_names = Appu
| years_active       = {{Ubl | 1976–1989 | 2002–2021}}
| years_active = {{Ubl|1976–1989|2002–2021}}
| spouse             = {{marriage|Ashwini Revanth|1999}}
| spouse       = {{marriage|Ashwini Revanth|1999}}
| children           = 2
| children     = 2
| father             = [[Rajkumar (actor)|Rajkumar]]
| father       = [[Dr. Rajkumar]]
| mother             = [[Parvathamma Rajkumar|Parvathamma]]
| mother       = [[Parvathamma Rajkumar]]
| relatives         = See [[List of Indian film families#Rajkumar family|Rajkumar family]]
| relatives   = See [[List of Indian film families#Rajkumar family|Rajkumar family]]
}}
}}
'''Puneeth Rajkumar''' (17 March 1975 – 29 October 2021<ref name="DOB"/><ref name="india.com" />), colloquially known as '''Appu''', was an Indian actor, playback singer, television presenter, and producer who worked primarily in [[Kannada cinema]]. He has been a lead actor in 29 films; as a child, he appeared in many films. His performances in ''[[Vasantha Geetha]]'' (1980), ''[[Bhagyavantha]]'' (1981), ''[[Chalisuva Modagalu]]'' (1982), ''[[Eradu Nakshatragalu]]'' (1983), Bhakta Prahaladha, Yarivanu and ''[[Bettada Hoovu]]'' (1985) were praised.<ref name="DOB">{{cite web|url=https://www.filmibeat.com/celebs/puneeth-rajkumar/biography.html|title=Puneeth Rajkumar Biography, Life Story, Career, Awards & Achievements|website=[[Filmibeat]]|access-date=23 December 2018}}</ref> He won the [[National Film Award for Best Child Artist]] for his role of Ramu in ''Bettada Hoovu''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Shivkamal|first=Aravind G|url=http://www.southscope.in/kannada/article/puneeth-rajkumar-impeccable-aura-powerstar-continues-dazzle|title=Puneeth Rajkumar: The impeccable aura of the Powerstar continues to dazzle|publisher=Southscope|date=29 June 2010|access-date=26 August 2010}}{{dead link|date=April 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> He also won Karnataka State Award Best Child artist for ''Chalisuva Modagalu'' and ''Yeradu Nakshatragalu''. Puneeth's first lead role was in 2002's ''[[Appu (2002 film)|Appu]]''.


He has been dubbed by media and fans as "Powerstar".
'''Puneeth Rajkumar''' (17 March 1975 – 29 October 2021), colloquially known as '''Appu''', was an Indian actor, playback singer, television presenter, and producer who worked primarily in [[Kannada cinema]]. He was a lead actor in 29 films; as a child, he appeared in many films. His performances in ''[[Vasantha Geetha]]'' (1980), ''[[Bhagyavantha]]'' (1981), ''[[Chalisuva Modagalu]]'' (1982), ''[[Eradu Nakshatragalu]]'' (1983), Bhakta Prahaladha, Yarivanu and ''[[Bettada Hoovu]]'' (1985) were praised.<ref name="DOB">{{cite web|url=https://www.filmibeat.com/celebs/puneeth-rajkumar/biography.html|title=Puneeth Rajkumar Biography, Life Story, Career, Awards & Achievements|website=[[Filmibeat]]|access-date=23 December 2018}}</ref> He won the [[National Film Award for Best Child Artist]] for his role of Ramu in ''Bettada Hoovu''.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|last=Bharadwaj|first=K. V. Aditya|date=2021-10-30|title=For Puneeth Rajkumar, this was no time to die|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/for-puneeth-rajkumar-this-was-no-time-to-die/article37244563.ece|access-date=2021-11-08|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> He also won Karnataka State Award Best Child artist for ''Chalisuva Modagalu'' and ''Eradu Nakshatragalu''. Puneeth's first lead role was in 2002's ''[[Appu (2002 film)|Appu]]''. [[Karnataka Government]] has announced State's highest civilian award [[Karnataka Ratna]] for Puneeth, posthumously, in November 2021.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/karnataka-ratna-for-puneeth-chief-minister/article37529863.ece|title=Karnataka Ratna for Puneeth|work=The Hindu|date=16 November 2021|access-date=18 November 2021}}</ref>
He has appeared as a lead actor in commercially successful films, including ''[[Appu (2002 film)|Appu]]'' (2002), ''[[Abhi (2003 film)|Abhi]]'' (2003), ''[[Veera Kannadiga]]'' (2004), ''[[Maurya (film)|Mourya]]'' (2004), ''[[Aakash (2005 film)|Aakash]]'' (2005), ''[[Ajay (2006 film)|Ajay]]'' (2006), ''[[Arasu (2007 film)|Arasu]]'' (2007), ''[[Milana (film)|Milana]]'' (2007), ''[[Vamshi (film)|Vamshi]]'' (2008), ''[[Raam (2009 film)|Raam]]'' (2009), ''[[Jackie (2010 film)|Jackie]]'' (2010), ''[[Hudugaru]]'' (2011), ''[[Raajakumara]]'' (2017),
and ''[[Anjani Putra]]'' (2017).<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.mybangalore.com/article/1010/superstars-of-the-kannada-film-industry.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=27 November 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160724104058/http://www.mybangalore.com/article/1010/superstars-of-the-kannada-film-industry.html |archive-date=24 July 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="Appu">{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/news/Puneeth-to-break-a-record/articleshow/52383671.cms|title=3 films for Puneeth, Puneeth Rajkumar this year|work=The Times of India}}</ref>  He is one of the most famous celebrities and the highest-paid actors in the [[Kannada cinema]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/rajinikanth-pawan-kalyan-top-20-highest-paid-south-indian-actors-2014-617376|title=Top 20 Highest Paid South Indian Actors of 2014|publisher=ibtimes.co.in|work=International Business Times}}</ref> In 2012, he debuted as a television presenter on the game show ''[[Kannadada Kotyadhipati]]'', a Kannada version of ''[[Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?]]''.<ref name="Koti"/><ref>{{cite news |title=Puneeth Rajkumar: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography & Birthday {{!}} eTimes |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Puneeth-Rajkumar |access-date=7 January 2021 |work=timesofindia.indiatimes.com}}</ref>


==Early life and family==
He has been dubbed by media and fans as "Powerstar". He appeared as a lead actor in commercially successful films, including ''[[Appu (2002 film)|Appu]]'' (2002), ''[[Abhi (2003 film)|Abhi]]'' (2003), ''[[Veera Kannadiga]]'' (2004), ''[[Maurya (film)|Mourya]]'' (2004), ''[[Aakash (2005 film)|Aakash]]'' (2005), ''[[Ajay (2006 film)|Ajay]]'' (2006), ''[[Arasu (2007 film)|Arasu]]'' (2007), ''[[Milana (film)|Milana]]'' (2007), ''[[Vamshi (film)|Vamshi]]'' (2008), ''[[Raam (2009 film)|Raam]]'' (2009), ''[[Jackie (2010 film)|Jackie]]'' (2010), ''[[Hudugaru]]'' (2011), ''[[Raajakumara]]'' (2017),
Puneeth (then Lohit) was born in [[Chennai]] to the [[matinee idol]] [[Rajkumar (actor)|Rajkumar]] and [[Parvathamma Rajkumar]]. He is their fifth and youngest child. When Puneeth was six years old, his family moved to [[Mysore]]. His father brought him and his sister Poornima to his film sets until he was ten years old.<ref name="PR">{{cite web|title= I can never be my father|url= http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Repository/getFiles.asp?Style=OliveXLib:LowLevelEntityToPrint_TOI&Type=text/html&Locale=English-skin-custom&Path=TOIBG/2010/11/15&ID=Ar00500|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141206233325/http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Repository/getFiles.asp?Style=OliveXLib%3ALowLevelEntityToPrint_TOI&Type=text%2Fhtml&Locale=English-skin-custom&Path=TOIBG%2F2010%2F11%2F15&ID=Ar00500|url-status= dead|archive-date= 6 December 2014|work= [[The Times of India]]|date= 15 November 2010|access-date= 25 September 2014}}</ref> His elder brother, [[Shiva Rajkumar]], is a popular actor.
and ''[[Anjani Putra]]'' (2017).<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.mybangalore.com/article/1010/superstars-of-the-kannada-film-industry.html |title=Superstars of the Kannada Film Industry |access-date=27 November 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160724104058/http://www.mybangalore.com/article/1010/superstars-of-the-kannada-film-industry.html |archive-date=24 July 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="Appu">{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/news/Puneeth-to-break-a-record/articleshow/52383671.cms|title=3 films for Puneeth, Puneeth Rajkumar this year|work=The Times of India}}</ref>  He was one of the most famous celebrities and the highest-paid actors in the [[Kannada cinema]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/rajinikanth-pawan-kalyan-top-20-highest-paid-south-indian-actors-2014-617376|title=Top 20 Highest Paid South Indian Actors of 2014|publisher=ibtimes.co.in|work=International Business Times|date=16 December 2014}}</ref> In 2012, he debuted as a television presenter on the game show ''[[Kannadada Kotyadhipati]]'', a Kannada version of ''[[Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?]]''.<ref name="Koti"/><ref>{{cite news |title=Puneeth Rajkumar: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography & Birthday {{!}} eTimes |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Puneeth-Rajkumar |access-date=7 January 2021 |work=timesofindia.indiatimes.com}}</ref>
 
== Personal life ==
Puneeth (born Lohith) was born in [[Chennai]] to the [[matinee idol]] [[Dr. Rajkumar]] and [[Parvathamma Rajkumar]] on 17 March 1975. He was their fifth and youngest child. When Puneeth was six years old, his family moved to [[Mysore]]. His father brought him and his sister Poornima to his film sets until he was ten years old.<ref name="PR">{{cite web|title= I can never be my father|url= http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Repository/getFiles.asp?Style=OliveXLib:LowLevelEntityToPrint_TOI&Type=text/html&Locale=English-skin-custom&Path=TOIBG/2010/11/15&ID=Ar00500|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141206233325/http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Repository/getFiles.asp?Style=OliveXLib%3ALowLevelEntityToPrint_TOI&Type=text%2Fhtml&Locale=English-skin-custom&Path=TOIBG%2F2010%2F11%2F15&ID=Ar00500|url-status= dead|archive-date= 6 December 2014|work= [[The Times of India]]|date= 15 November 2010|access-date= 25 September 2014}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> His elder brother, [[Shiva Rajkumar]], is also a professional actor.<ref>{{cite news |title=After Puneeth Rajkumar's death, elder brother Shiva Rajkumar's Bhajrangi 2 shows cancelled |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/after-puneeth-rajkumar-s-death-elder-brother-shiva-rajkumar-s-bhajrangi-2-shows-cancelled-1871137-2021-10-29 |access-date=30 October 2021 |work=India Today |date=29 October 2021 |language=en}}</ref>
 
Puneeth married Ashwini Revanth from [[Chikmagalur]] on 1 December 1999. They met through a common friend, and had two daughters.<ref>{{cite web|title=16 Years Marital Bliss For Powerstar Puneeth Rajkumar & Wife Ashwini|author=Veena|url=http://www.filmibeat.com/kannada/news/2015/puneeth-rajkumar-and-ashwini-wedding-pictures-dodmane-huduga-and-chakravyuha-207029.html|work=Filmibeat|date=2 December 2015|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref>


==Acting career==
==Acting career==
{{See also|Puneeth Rajkumar filmography|}}
=== 1976–1989: As child actor ===
=== 1976–1989: As child actor ===
Director [[V. Somashekar]] cast Puneeth (then known as Lohith) onscreen when he was six months old in his thriller film ''[[Premada Kanike]]'' (1976), and [[Aarathi]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NQyujXEvcs|title=Naa Bidalare Ninnanu – Premada Kanike – Rajkumar Hits|publisher=YouTube|date=19 July 2011|access-date=12 July 2012}}</ref> This was followed by [[Vijay (director)|Vijay's]] ''[[Sanaadi Appanna]]'' (1977), based on [[Krishnamoorthy Puranik]]'s novel of the same name,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cECm33A1Wao|title=Naane Thaayi Naane Thande – Sanadi Appanna (1977) – Kannada|publisher=[[YouTube]]|access-date=12 July 2012}}</ref> when Puneeth was one year old. ''[[Thayige Thakka Maga]]'' (1978) was again directed by V. Somashekar and starred his father. Two years later, directors [[S. K. Bhagavan|Dorai-Bhagavan]] cast him as Shyam in ''[[Vasantha Geetha]]'' (1980). This was followed by [[K. S. L. Swamy]]'s mythological drama ''[[Bhoomige Banda Bhagavantha]]'' (1981, appearing as [[Lord Krishna]]) and [[B. S. Ranga]]'s ''[[Bhagyavantha]]'' (1982),<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Puneeth-Rajkumar|title=Puneeth Rajkumar: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography & Birthday {{!}} eTimes|website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com|access-date=11 June 2019}}</ref> in which he recorded his first popular song: "Baana Daariyalli Soorya", composed by [[T. G. Lingappa]]. That year, he appeared in two hit films (''[[Chalisuva Modagalu]]'' and ''[[Hosa Belaku]]'') with his father. For the former, Puneeth received his first [[Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor (Male)]]. In 1983, he appeared in two mythological films: ''[[Bhakta Prahlada (1983 film)|Bhakta Prahlada]]'' as the protagonist, Prahlada, and ''[[Eradu Nakshatragalu]]'', for which he received his second Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor.
Director [[V. Somashekar]] cast Puneeth (then known as Lohith) onscreen when he was six months old in his thriller film ''[[Premada Kanike]]'' (1976), and [[Aarathi]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NQyujXEvcs| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160215072805/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NQyujXEvcs| archive-date=2016-02-15 | url-status=dead|title=Naa Bidalare Ninnanu – Premada Kanike – Rajkumar Hits|publisher=YouTube|date=19 July 2011|access-date=12 July 2012}}</ref> This was followed by [[Vijay (director)|Vijay's]] ''[[Sanaadi Appanna]]'' (1977), based on [[Krishnamoorthy Puranik]]'s novel of the same name,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cECm33A1Wao|title=Naane Thaayi Naane Thande – Sanadi Appanna (1977) – Kannada|publisher=[[YouTube]]|access-date=12 July 2012}}</ref> when Puneeth was one year old. ''[[Thayige Thakka Maga]]'' (1978) was again directed by V. Somashekar and starred his father. Two years later, directors [[S. K. Bhagavan|Dorai-Bhagavan]] cast him as Shyam in ''[[Vasantha Geetha]]'' (1980). This was followed by [[K. S. L. Swamy]]'s mythological drama ''[[Bhoomige Banda Bhagavantha]]'' (1981, appearing as [[Lord Krishna]]) and [[B. S. Ranga]]'s ''[[Bhagyavantha]]'' (1982),<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Puneeth-Rajkumar|title=Puneeth Rajkumar: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography & Birthday {{!}} eTimes|website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com|access-date=11 June 2019}}</ref> in which he recorded his first popular song: "Baana Daariyalli Soorya", composed by [[T. G. Lingappa]]. That year, he appeared in two hit films (''[[Chalisuva Modagalu]]'' and ''[[Hosa Belaku]]'') with his father. For the former, Puneeth received his first [[Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor (Male)]]. In 1983, he appeared in two mythological films: ''[[Bhakta Prahlada (1983 film)|Bhakta Prahlada]]'' as the protagonist, Prahlada, and ''[[Eradu Nakshatragalu]]'', for which he received his second Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor.<ref name="The News Minute Everyone">{{cite news |title=Everyone's Appu: Recalling Puneeth Rajkumar's contributions to cinema |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/everyones-appu-recalling-puneeth-rajkumars-contributions-cinema-157077 |access-date=30 October 2021 |work=The News Minute |date=30 October 2021 |language=en}}</ref>


In 1984, Puneeth starred with Rajkumar in the thriller ''[[Yarivanu]]'' and sang "Kannige Kaanuva", written by [[Rajan–Nagendra]]. His biggest break as a child actor came in the 1985 drama ''[[Bettada Hoovu]]'', directed by N. Lakshminarayan and based on Shirley L. Arora's novel ''What Then, Raman?'' For his portrayal of the innocent Ramu, Puneeth received the award for [[National Film Award for Best Child Artist|Best Child Artist]] at the [[33rd National Film Awards]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/did-you-know-/Puneeth-Rajkumar-won-a-national-award-as-a-child-artist/articleshow/31169923.cms|title=Puneeth Rajkumar won a national award as a child artist|work=The Times of India|agency=TNN|date=28 February 2014|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> In his early teens, he appeared in ''[[Shiva Mecchida Kannappa]]'' (1988) as the young Kannappa with his elder brother, Shiva. Puneeth's final child role was in ''[[Parashuram (1989 film)|Parashuram]]'' (1989), with his father.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/My-name-is-Parvathy/article14943418.ece|title=My name is Parvathy|first=Nita|last=Sathyendran|date=12 March 2011|via=www.thehindu.com}}</ref>
In 1984, Puneeth starred with Rajkumar in the thriller ''[[Yarivanu]]'' and sang "Kannige Kaanuva", written by [[Rajan–Nagendra]]. His biggest break as a child actor came in the 1985 drama ''[[Bettada Hoovu]]'', directed by N. Lakshminarayan and based on Shirley L. Arora's novel ''What Then, Raman?'' For his portrayal of the innocent Ramu, Puneeth received the award for [[National Film Award for Best Child Artist|Best Child Artist]] at the [[33rd National Film Awards]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/did-you-know-/Puneeth-Rajkumar-won-a-national-award-as-a-child-artist/articleshow/31169923.cms|title=Puneeth Rajkumar won a national award as a child artist|work=The Times of India|agency=TNN|date=28 February 2014|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> In his early teens, he appeared in ''[[Shiva Mecchida Kannappa]]'' (1988) as the young Kannappa with his elder brother, Shiva. Puneeth's final child role was in ''[[Parashuram (1989 film)|Parashuram]]'' (1989), with his father.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/My-name-is-Parvathy/article14943418.ece|title=My name is Parvathy|first=Nita|last=Sathyendran|newspaper=The Hindu|date=12 March 2011|via=www.thehindu.com}}</ref>


=== 2002–2007: Debut as lead and breakthrough ===
=== 2002–2007: Debut as lead and breakthrough ===
In April 2002, Puneeth made his film debut as a leading man in the [[masala film]], ''[[Appu (2002 film)|Appu]]'' with [[actress]], [[Rakshita]] also making her film debut.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.rediff.com/movies/2002/feb/27puneet.htm|title=The return of the son|website=[[Rediff.com]]|date=27 February 2002|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> The musical by [[Gurukiran]], directed by [[Puri Jagannadh]] and produced by [[Parvathamma Rajkumar]], in which he played a college boy, was a box office success and critics praised his dancing skills. Puneeth sang "Taliban Alla Alla", with lyrics by [[Upendra (actor)|Upendra]] and music by [[Gurukiran]]. The film's success spawned remakes in Telugu (''[[Idiot (2002 film)|Idiot]]'' (2003)) and Tamil (''[[Dum (2003 Tamil film)|Dum]]'' (2003)).
In April 2002, Puneeth made his film debut as a leading man in the [[masala film]], ''[[Appu (2002 film)|Appu]]'' with [[actress]], [[Rakshita]] also making her film debut.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.rediff.com/movies/2002/feb/27puneet.htm|title=The return of the son|website=[[Rediff.com]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141209100859/https://m.rediff.com/movies/2002/feb/27puneet.htm|archive-date=9 December 2014|url-status=live|date=27 February 2002|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> The musical by [[Gurukiran]], directed by [[Puri Jagannadh]] and produced by [[Parvathamma Rajkumar]], in which he played a college boy, was a box office success and critics praised his dancing skills. Puneeth sang "Taliban Alla Alla", with lyrics by [[Upendra (actor)|Upendra]] and music by [[Gurukiran]]. The film's success spawned remakes in Telugu (''[[Idiot (2002 film)|Idiot]]'' (2002)) and Tamil (''[[Dum (2003 Tamil film)|Dum]]'' (2003)).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://m.timesofindia.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/news/from-school-master-to-u-turn-a-look-at-kannada-films-remade-in-other-indian-languages/amp_articleshow/75161463.cms|title = From 'School Master' to 'U Turn': A look at Kannada films remade in other Indian languages|website = [[The Times of India]]|date=15 April 2020|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref>


Puneeth next appeared in [[Dinesh Babu]]'s ''[[Abhi (film)|Abhi]]'' (2003) as a plucky college boy who is devoted to his mother. In the film, based on a true story and produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar, he starred with debutante [[Ramya]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chitraloka.com/movie-reviews/2691-abhi-review.html|title=Abhi Movie Review|publisher=Chitraloka |date=26 April 2003|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref>
Puneeth next appeared in [[Dinesh Babu]]'s ''[[Abhi (film)|Abhi]]'' (2003) as a plucky college boy who is devoted to his mother. In the film, based on a true story and produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar, he starred with debutante [[Ramya]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chitraloka.com/movie-reviews/2691-abhi-review.html|title=Abhi Movie Review|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160401001616/http://www.chitraloka.com/movie-reviews/2691-abhi-review.html|archive-date=1 April 2016|url-status=live|publisher=Chitraloka |date=26 April 2003|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref>


Meher Ramesh's ''[[Veera Kannadiga]]'' was Puneeth's first 2004 release. The film, written by Puri Jagannadh, was simultaneously made in Telugu as ''[[Andhrawala]]'' with [[N. T. Rama Rao Jr.]] in the lead role. Paired with debutante [[Anita Hassanandani Reddy|Anitha]], it showcased his dancing and stunt skills. Although the film was criticised for its violence and poor plot, it was successful at the box office.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.viggy.com/english/review_veera_kannadiga.asp|title=Veera Kannadiga – film review|work=Viggy.com|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> Puneeth next starred in [[S. Narayan]]'s family drama ''[[Maurya (2004 film)|Maurya]]'', a remake of the Telugu ''[[Amma Nanna O Tamila Ammayi]]'', starring [[Ravi Teja]] and written by Puri Jagannadh. The remake enhanced Puneeth's reputation as an actor in his own right.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chitraloka.com/movie-reviews/2815-mourya-review.html|title=Mourya Movie Review|work=Chitraloka|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref>
Meher Ramesh's ''[[Veera Kannadiga]]'' was Puneeth's first 2004 release. The film, written by Puri Jagannadh, was simultaneously made in Telugu as ''[[Andhrawala]]'' with [[N. T. Rama Rao Jr.]] in the lead role. Paired with debutante [[Anita Hassanandani Reddy|Anitha]], it showcased his dancing and stunt skills. Although the film was criticised for its violence and poor plot, it was successful at the box office.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.viggy.com/english/review_veera_kannadiga.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324081729/http://www.viggy.com/english/review_veera_kannadiga.asp|archive-date=24 March 2016|url-status=live|title=Veera Kannadiga – film review|work=Viggy.com|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> Puneeth next starred in [[S. Narayan]]'s family drama ''[[Maurya (2004 film)|Maurya]]'', a remake of the Telugu ''[[Amma Nanna O Tamila Ammayi]]'', starring [[Ravi Teja]] and written by Puri Jagannadh. The remake enhanced Puneeth's reputation as an actor in his own right.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chitraloka.com/movie-reviews/2815-mourya-review.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324000320/https://www.chitraloka.com/movie-reviews/2815-mourya-review.html|archive-date=24 March 2016|url-status=live|title=Mourya Movie Review|date=22 October 2004|work=Chitraloka|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref>


He released two films in 2005. Mahesh Babu's ''[[Aakash (2005 film)|Aakash]]'' reunited Puneeth with Ramya (from ''Abhi'') and he appeared in Veera Shankar's action film ''[[Namma Basava]]'', with [[Gowri Munjal]]. He recorded songs in both films. Puneeth's only 2006 release was ''[[Ajay (2006 film)|Ajay]]'', directed by Meher Ramesh and produced by [[Rockline Venkatesh]]. In the film, a remake of the 2003 Telugu ''[[Okkadu]]'', he played a professional [[Kabaddi in India|kabaddi]] player who protects a girl endangered by her uncle (played by [[Prakash Raj]]). As a result of these films, Puneeth was called the "Powerstar of Sandalwood".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://todayupdates.net/5-movies-that-prove-that-puneeth-rajkumar-is-the-real-powerstar-of-sandalwood/|title=5 movies that prove that Puneeth Rajkumar is the real Powerstar of Sandalwood!|work=Today updates|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324022452/http://todayupdates.net/5-movies-that-prove-that-puneeth-rajkumar-is-the-real-powerstar-of-sandalwood/|archive-date=24 March 2016}}</ref>
He released two films in 2005. Mahesh Babu's ''[[Aakash (2005 film)|Aakash]]'' reunited Puneeth with Ramya (from ''Abhi'') and he appeared in Veera Shankar's action film ''[[Namma Basava]]'', with [[Gowri Munjal]]. He recorded songs in both films. Puneeth's only 2006 release was ''[[Ajay (2006 film)|Ajay]]'', directed by Meher Ramesh and produced by [[Rockline Venkatesh]]. In the film, a remake of the 2003 Telugu ''[[Okkadu]]'', he played a professional [[Kabaddi in India|kabaddi]] player who protects a girl endangered by her uncle (played by [[Prakash Raj]]). As a result of these films, Puneeth was called the "Powerstar of Sandalwood".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://todayupdates.net/5-movies-that-prove-that-puneeth-rajkumar-is-the-real-powerstar-of-sandalwood/|title=5 movies that prove that Puneeth Rajkumar is the real Powerstar of Sandalwood!|work=Today updates|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324022452/http://todayupdates.net/5-movies-that-prove-that-puneeth-rajkumar-is-the-real-powerstar-of-sandalwood/|archive-date=24 March 2016}}</ref>
Line 46: Line 51:
Puneeth's first release in 2007 was his production ''[[Arasu (2007 film)|Arasu]]'', directed by Mahesh Babu, in which he played an expatriate businessman who renounces his wealth for the woman he loves. For his performance, he received his first [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor - Kannada|Filmfare Best Actor award]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiainteracts.in/gossip/2007/08/08/2483/54th-Filmfare-Awards-South-Winners/|title=54th Filmfare Awards South Winners|work=India Interacts|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304215921/http://indiainteracts.in/gossip/2007/08/08/2483/54th-Filmfare-Awards-South-Winners/|archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref> Puneeth's other release that year was [[Prakash (film director)|Prakash]]'s reaffirmation of traditional family values ''[[Milana (film)|Milana]]''. Actress Parvathy [[Parvathy Thiruvothu|Parvathy (actress)]] made her debut into Kannada films with this film. Puneeth played the [[Radio personality|radio jockey]] Akash. For the film, he received his first [[Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor]].<ref name="archives.deccanchronicle.com">{{cite news|url=http://archives.deccanchronicle.com/130318/entertainment-sandalwood/gallery/birthday-exclusive-puneeth-rajkumar|title=Birthday Exclusive: Puneeth Rajkumar|work=[[Deccan Chronicle]]|access-date=2 April 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602074935/http://archives.deccanchronicle.com/130318/entertainment-sandalwood/gallery/birthday-exclusive-puneeth-rajkumar|archive-date=2 June 2015}}</ref>
Puneeth's first release in 2007 was his production ''[[Arasu (2007 film)|Arasu]]'', directed by Mahesh Babu, in which he played an expatriate businessman who renounces his wealth for the woman he loves. For his performance, he received his first [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor - Kannada|Filmfare Best Actor award]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiainteracts.in/gossip/2007/08/08/2483/54th-Filmfare-Awards-South-Winners/|title=54th Filmfare Awards South Winners|work=India Interacts|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304215921/http://indiainteracts.in/gossip/2007/08/08/2483/54th-Filmfare-Awards-South-Winners/|archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref> Puneeth's other release that year was [[Prakash (film director)|Prakash]]'s reaffirmation of traditional family values ''[[Milana (film)|Milana]]''. Actress Parvathy [[Parvathy Thiruvothu|Parvathy (actress)]] made her debut into Kannada films with this film. Puneeth played the [[Radio personality|radio jockey]] Akash. For the film, he received his first [[Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor]].<ref name="archives.deccanchronicle.com">{{cite news|url=http://archives.deccanchronicle.com/130318/entertainment-sandalwood/gallery/birthday-exclusive-puneeth-rajkumar|title=Birthday Exclusive: Puneeth Rajkumar|work=[[Deccan Chronicle]]|access-date=2 April 2016|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602074935/http://archives.deccanchronicle.com/130318/entertainment-sandalwood/gallery/birthday-exclusive-puneeth-rajkumar|archive-date=2 June 2015}}</ref>


=== 2008–2011: Career challenges ===
=== 2008–2015: Other films ===
The actor released two films in 2008: [[D. Rajendra Babu]]'s ''[[Bindaas (2008 film)|Bindaas]]'' and Prakash's ''[[Vamshi (film)|Vamshi]]''. Puneeth's first 2009 release was ''[[Raaj - The Showman]]''. Although the film (directed by [[Prem (director)|Prem]]) was criticised, his performance was praised.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/telugu-movie-review-raaj-the-showman/20090814.htm|title=Raaj, the Showman disappoints|website=Rediff.com|date=14 August 2009|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> His other film ''[[Raam (2009 film)|Raam]]'', with [[Priyamani]], was a remake of the Telugu hit ''[[Ready (2008 film)|Ready]]''.
The actor released two films in 2008: [[D. Rajendra Babu]]'s ''[[Bindaas (2008 film)|Bindaas]]'' and Prakash's ''[[Vamshi (film)|Vamshi]]''. Puneeth's first 2009 release was ''[[Raaj - The Showman]]''. Although the film (directed by [[Prem (director)|Prem]]) was criticised, his performance was praised.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/telugu-movie-review-raaj-the-showman/20090814.htm|title=Raaj, the Showman disappoints|website=Rediff.com|date=14 August 2009|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> His other film ''[[Raam (2009 film)|Raam]]'', with [[Priyamani]], was a remake of the Telugu hit ''[[Ready (2008 film)|Ready]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/kannada/movie-reviews/Raam/movie-review/5394246.cms |title=RAAM MOVIE REVIEW|work=The Times of India |date=14 May 2016 |access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref>


Puneeth returned to the limelight in 2010 with back-to-back hits. The first was Jacob Varghese's political thriller ''[[Prithvi (2010 film)|Prithvi]]'', in which he played a bureaucrat in [[Ballari district]] who fights corruption. His next release was the action film ''[[Jackie (2010 film)|Jackie]]'', directed by [[Duniya Soori]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-07-03/chennai/29732898_1_lifetime-achievement-award-telugu-film-director-award|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716072945/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-07-03/chennai/29732898_1_lifetime-achievement-award-telugu-film-director-award|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 July 2012|title=The glitter, the gloss, the razzmatazz|date=3 July 2011|work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> which was a commercial success. Puneeth Rajkumar is praised by both the critics and fans. His dare-devil stunts in movies are still a record in South Indian cinema. He also danced well in the movie.{{citation needed|date=March 2017|reason=for the three sentences before this tag}}
Puneeth returned to the limelight in 2010 with back-to-back hits. The first was Jacob Varghese's political thriller ''[[Prithvi (2010 film)|Prithvi]]'', in which he played a bureaucrat in [[Ballari district]] who fights corruption. His next release was the action film ''[[Jackie (2010 film)|Jackie]]'', directed by [[Duniya Soori]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-07-03/chennai/29732898_1_lifetime-achievement-award-telugu-film-director-award|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716072945/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-07-03/chennai/29732898_1_lifetime-achievement-award-telugu-film-director-award|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 July 2012|title=The glitter, the gloss, the razzmatazz|date=3 July 2011|work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> which was a commercial success. In 2011, Puneeth co-starred in K. Madesh's ''[[Hudugaru]]'', a remake of the Tamil film ''[[Nadodigal]]''<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cinemagupshup.com/kannada/kannada-actor-news/Puneethh-rajkumar-next-upcoming-latest-film-titled-hudugru/ |title=cinemagupshup.com |website=Cinemagupshup.com |access-date=20 January 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304132845/http://www.cinemagupshup.com/kannada/kannada-actor-news/Puneethh-rajkumar-next-upcoming-latest-film-titled-hudugru/ |archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref> in which he reprised [[M. Sasikumar]]'s role in the original. For his performance, he received his second Filmfare and first [[South Indian International Movie Awards|SIIMA]] Best Actor awards.<ref>{{cite web|author=Letty Mariam Abraham |url=http://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/filmfare-awards-dhanush-mahesh-babu-puneeth-ramya-bag-trophies/attachment/puneeth-rajkumar-received-the-best-actor-male-kannada-award-for-the-film-hudugaru-at-the-59th-dea-filmfare-awards-2011-south-on-8th-july-at-jawaharlal-nehru-indoor-stadium-chennai-090712/|title=Puneeth Rajkumar received the Best Actor (Male) Kannada Award for the film ''Hudugaru''|website=Bollywoodlife.com|date=10 July 2012|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> In [[Yogaraj Bhat]]'s travelogue ''[[Paramathma (film)|Paramathma]]'', Puneeth's next release, his character searches for love.<ref name=hindu1>{{cite news|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=3 December 2010|url=http://www.hindu.com/fr/2010/12/03/stories/2010120350850400.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101207175308/http://www.hindu.com/fr/2010/12/03/stories/2010120350850400.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 December 2010|title=News Archives|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref>


=== 2011–2015: ''Hudugaru'' and other films ===
He worked with Soori again in 2012 on the action film ''[[Anna Bond]]'', produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar.<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/Puneeth-to-work-with-soori-news-kannada-kmdlAycebfh.html|title=Puneet to work with Soori|website=[[Sify]]|date=3 December 2010|access-date=20 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140104033356/http://www.sify.com/movies/Puneeth-to-work-with-soori-news-kannada-kmdlAycebfh.html|archive-date=4 January 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> For his performance, he received the [[Suvarna Film Awards|Suvarna Best Actor]] award and was nominated for an IIFA award. Puneeth starred in another Tamil remake ''[[Poraali]]'', filmed in Kannada as ''[[Yaare Koogadali]]'', by [[Samuthirakani]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.oneindia.in/celebs/puneet-rajkumar/upcoming-movies.html|title=Upcoming Movie Releases &#124; Puneet Rajkumar &#124; Puneet Rajkumar Upcoming Movies – Filmibeat|website=Oneindia|date=17 March 1975|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref>  
In 2011, Puneeth co-starred in K. Madesh's ''[[Hudugaru]]'', a remake of the Tamil film ''[[Nadodigal]]''<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cinemagupshup.com/kannada/kannada-actor-news/Puneethh-rajkumar-next-upcoming-latest-film-titled-hudugru/ |title=cinemagupshup.com |website=Cinemagupshup.com |access-date=20 January 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304132845/http://www.cinemagupshup.com/kannada/kannada-actor-news/Puneethh-rajkumar-next-upcoming-latest-film-titled-hudugru/ |archive-date=4 March 2016  }}</ref> in which he reprised [[M. Sasikumar]]'s role in the original. For his performance, he received his second Filmfare and first [[South Indian International Movie Awards|SIIMA]] Best Actor awards.<ref>{{cite web|author=Letty Mariam Abraham |url=http://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/filmfare-awards-dhanush-mahesh-babu-puneeth-ramya-bag-trophies/attachment/puneeth-rajkumar-received-the-best-actor-male-kannada-award-for-the-film-hudugaru-at-the-59th-dea-filmfare-awards-2011-south-on-8th-july-at-jawaharlal-nehru-indoor-stadium-chennai-090712/|title=Puneeth Rajkumar received the Best Actor (Male) Kannada Award for the film ''Hudugaru''|website=Bollywoodlife.com|date=10 July 2012|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> In [[Yogaraj Bhat]]'s travelogue ''[[Paramathma (film)|Paramathma]]'', Puneeth's next release, his character searches for love.<ref name=hindu1>{{cite news|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=3 December 2010|url=http://www.hindu.com/fr/2010/12/03/stories/2010120350850400.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101207175308/http://www.hindu.com/fr/2010/12/03/stories/2010120350850400.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 December 2010|title=News Archives|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref>


He worked with Soori again in 2012 on the action film ''[[Anna Bond]]'', produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar.<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/Puneeth-to-work-with-soori-news-kannada-kmdlAycebfh.html|title=Puneet to work with Soori|website=[[Sify]]|date=3 December 2010|access-date=20 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140104033356/http://www.sify.com/movies/Puneeth-to-work-with-soori-news-kannada-kmdlAycebfh.html|archive-date=4 January 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> For his performance, he received the [[Suvarna Film Awards|Suvarna Best Actor]] award and was nominated for an IIFA award. Puneeth starred in another Tamil remake ''[[Poraali]]'', filmed in Kannada as ''[[Yaare Koogadali]]'', by [[Samuthirakani]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.oneindia.in/celebs/puneet-rajkumar/upcoming-movies.html|title=Upcoming Movie Releases &#124; Puneet Rajkumar &#124; Puneet Rajkumar Upcoming Movies – Filmibeat|website=Oneindia|date=17 March 1975|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> He played Kumar, who escapes with his friend from a mental asylum and finds refuge in a man's house.
In 2014, Puneeth starred in Jayanth C. Paranjee's romance ''[[Ninnindale]]'', with [[Erica Fernandes]]. Although his performance as a New York-based adventure enthusiast based in New York was praised by critics,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bangaloremirror.com/entertainment/reviews/Movie-review-Ninnindale/articleshow/28964238.cms|author=Shyam Prasad S|title=Movie review: Ninnindale|work=Bangalore Mirror|date=7 January 2014|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> the film was unsuccessful at the box office. Puneeth's next release was K. Madesh's ''[[Power (2014 Kannada film)|Power***]]'', a remake of the Telugu film ''[[Dookudu]]''. Appearing with [[Trisha Krishnan|Trisha]] for the first time, he played a tough police officer. The film earned a record ₹22 [[crore]] ({{INR}}220 million) in six days.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/power-box-office-puneet-starrer-makes-record-collection-22-crore-6-days-608251|title='Power***' Box Office: Puneet Starrer Makes Record Collection of ₹22 Crore in 6 Days|work=[[International Business Times|IBTimes]]|date=3 September 2014|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> In 2015, he played himself in B. M. Giriraj's film ''[[Mythri (2015 film)|Mythri]]'', which also starred [[Mohanlal]] and [[Bhavana (Malayalam actress)|Bhavana]].<ref>{{Cite news|url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/news/When-Puneeth-Mohanlal-and-Atul-Kulkarni-shared-the-screen/articleshow/46285619.cms?|title = Puneeth, Mohanlalm Atul share the screen|last = Prathibha Joy|date = 19 February 2015|agency = [[The Times of India]]|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref> Puneeth's other release that year was [[Pawan Wadeyar]]'s ''[[Rana Vikrama]]'', an action film with [[Adah Sharma]] and [[Anjali (actress born 1986)|Anjali]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.filmibeat.com/kannada/news/2015/exclusive-photo-anjali-completes-dubbing-for-puneeth-rajkumar-s-rana-vikrama-177332.html|author=Veena|title=EXCLUSIVE: Anjali Completes Dubbing For Puneeth Rajkumar's 'Rana Vikrama' |publisher=Filmibeat |date=20 March 2015 |accessdate=31 October 2021}}</ref>
 
In 2014, Puneeth starred in Jayanth C. Paranjee's romance ''[[Ninnindale]]'', with [[Erica Fernandes]]. Although his performance as a New York-based adventure enthusiast based in New York was praised by critics,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bangaloremirror.com/entertainment/reviews/Movie-review-Ninnindale/articleshow/28964238.cms|author=Shyam Prasad S|title=Movie review: Ninnindale|work=Bangalore Mirror|date=7 January 2014|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> the film was unsuccessful at the box office. Puneeth's next release was K. Madesh's ''[[Power (2014 Kannada film)|Power***]]'', a remake of the Telugu film ''[[Dookudu]]''. Appearing with [[Trisha Krishnan|Trisha]] for the first time, he played a tough police officer. The film earned a record ₹22 [[crore]] ({{INR}}220 million) in six days.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/power-box-office-puneet-starrer-makes-record-collection-22-crore-6-days-608251|title='Power***' Box Office: Puneet Starrer Makes Record Collection of ₹22 Crore in 6 Days|work=[[International Business Times|IBTimes]]|date=3 September 2014|access-date=17 March 2016}}</ref> In 2015, he played himself in B. M. Giriraj's film ''[[Mythri (2015 film)|Mythri]]'', which also starred [[Mohanlal]] and [[Bhavana (Malayalam actress)|Bhavana]]. Puneeth's other release that year was [[Pawan Wadeyar]]'s ''[[Rana Vikrama]]'', an action film with [[Adah Sharma]] and [[Anjali (actress born 1986)|Anjali]].


=== 2016–2021 ===
=== 2016–2021 ===
In March 2016, Puneeth worked for M. Saravanan's ''[[Chakravyuha (2016 film)|Chakravyuha]]'' and Duniya Soori's ''[[Doddmane Hudga]]''. In 2017, he appeared in [[Santhosh Ananddram]] 's ''[[Raajakumara]]'', which broke all-records in box-office and became the most highest-grossing Kannada-language film of all time beating previous record of ''[[Mungaru Male]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/sudeep-yash-upendra-jaggesh-join-puneeths-raajakumara-100-day-celebration-732967|title=Sudeep, Yash, Upendra, Jaggesh to join Puneeth's Raajakumara 100-day celebration|first=Prakash|last=Upadhyaya|date=1 July 2017|website=International Business Times, India Edition}}</ref><ref>[http://m.indiaglitz.com/rajakumara-100-all-time-industry-hit-kannada-news-188991.html "Rajakumara 100, all time industry hit-Kannada Movie News"]. ''IndiaGlitz''.</ref> later the record was taken up by the movie ''[[K.G.F: Chapter 1]]''. He also had the starring role in [[Harsha (director)|A Harsha]]'s ''[[Anjani Putra]]'' alongside with [[Rashmika Mandanna]], which was remake of Tamil film ''[[Poojai]]''.
In March 2016, Puneeth worked for M. Saravanan's ''[[Chakravyuha (2016 film)|Chakravyuha]]'' and Duniya Soori's ''[[Doddmane Hudga]]''. In 2017, he appeared in [[Santhosh Ananddram]] 's ''[[Raajakumara]]'', which broke all-records in box-office and became the highest-grossing Kannada-language film of all time beating previous record of ''[[Mungaru Male]]'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/sudeep-yash-upendra-jaggesh-join-puneeths-raajakumara-100-day-celebration-732967|title=Sudeep, Yash, Upendra, Jaggesh to join Puneeth's Raajakumara 100-day celebration|first=Prakash|last=Upadhyaya|date=1 July 2017|website=International Business Times, India Edition}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://m.indiaglitz.com/rajakumara-100-all-time-industry-hit-kannada-news-188991.html|title=Rajakumara 100, all time industry hit|date=30 June 2017|website=indiaglitz.com|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref> later the record was taken up by the movie ''[[K.G.F: Chapter 1]]''. He also had the starring role in [[Harsha (director)|A Harsha]]'s ''[[Anjani Putra]]'' alongside with [[Rashmika Mandanna]], which was remake of Tamil film ''[[Poojai]]''.
Puneeth Rajkumar has played narrator role in the [[Anup Bhandari]] directed [[Rajaratha]]. In 2019 his film ''[[Natasaarvabhowma]]'' was released and also had commercial success.
Puneeth Rajkumar has played narrator role in the [[Anup Bhandari]] directed [[Rajaratha]]. In 2019 his film ''[[Natasaarvabhowma]]'' was released and also had commercial success.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/natasaarvabhowma-going-strong-at-the-bo/articleshow/67982105.cms | title=Natasaarvabhowma going strong at the BO | date=14 February 2019 | newspaper=Bangalore Mirror | access-date=30 October 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/reviews/kannada/2019/feb/08/natasaarvabhowma-review-an-out-and-out-puneeth-rajkumar-show-10008.html |title=Natasaarvabhowma Review: An out-and-out Puneeth Rajkumar show |date=8 February 2019 |website=The New Indian Express |access-date=30 October 2021 }}</ref>


==Other works==
==Other works==
Puneeth was involved in philanthropy with his mother at the Shakti Dhama [[ashram]] in [[Mysore]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.youthindies.com/2011/07/punith-rajkumar-bio-profile-childhood-pics-wife-marriage-daughter-family-photos.html|title=Punith Rajkumar Bio Profile Childhood Pics Wife Marriage Daughter Family Photos|publisher=Youth Indies|date=10 July 2011|access-date=12 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120805043016/http://www.youthindies.com/2011/07/punith-rajkumar-bio-profile-childhood-pics-wife-marriage-daughter-family-photos.html|archive-date=5 August 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> and owned the Bengaluru Royals, [[Premier Futsal]] team.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/sport-others/premier-futsal-rules-teams-fixtures-results-giggs-ronaldinho-scholes-falcao-virat-kohli-luis-figo-2911522/|title=Premier Futsal: Rules, teams, fixtures, everything you need to know|website=indianexpress.com|date=15 July 2016|access-date=22 January 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.goal.com/en-india/news/136/india/2016/07/12/25537222/premier-futsal-kannada-actor-rajkumar-acquires-bengaluru|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100926215532/http://manappuram.com/php/newsContent.php?newsId=24|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 July 2016|title=Premier Futsal - Kannada actor Rajkumar acquires Bengaluru franchise &#124; Goal.com|date=12 July 2016|website=www.goal.com}}</ref>
===Playback singing===
===Playback singing===
{{main article|Puneeth Rajkumar discography}}
{{main article|Puneeth Rajkumar discography}}
Puneeth, just like his father, is one of very few actors that have excelled in professional singing too. He sang alone in ''Appu'', and sang a duet on "Jothe Jotheyali" from ''[[Vamshi (film)|Vamshi]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://media.desishock.com/906138/Jothe-Jotheyali---Vamshi--HQ-HD|title=Desi Shock Media Videos|website=Media.desishock.com|date=6 February 2010|access-date=12 July 2012}}</ref> He sang a fast number in ''[[Jackie (2010 film)|Jackie]]'' and sang in his brother Shiva's films ''[[Lava Kusha (2007 film)|Lava Kusha]]'' and ''[[Mylari]]''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/myalri-creates-a-big-buzz-news-kannada-kmolhGgaehi.html|title=Myalri creates a big buzz|website=Sify|date=14 December 2010|access-date=20 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022080312/http://www.sify.com/movies/myalri-creates-a-big-buzz-news-kannada-kmolhGgaehi.html|archive-date=22 October 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Puneeth, just like his father, is one of very few actors who have excelled in professional singing too. He sang alone in ''Appu'', and sang a duet on "Jothe Jotheyali" from ''[[Vamshi (film)|Vamshi]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://media.desishock.com/906138/Jothe-Jotheyali---Vamshi--HQ-HD|title=Desi Shock Media Videos|website=Media.desishock.com|date=6 February 2010|access-date=12 July 2012}}</ref> He sang a fast number in ''[[Jackie (2010 film)|Jackie]]'' and sang in his brother Shiva's films ''[[Lava Kusha (2007 film)|Lava Kusha]]'' and ''[[Mylari]]''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/myalri-creates-a-big-buzz-news-kannada-kmolhGgaehi.html|title=Myalri creates a big buzz|website=Sify|date=14 December 2010|access-date=20 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022080312/http://www.sify.com/movies/myalri-creates-a-big-buzz-news-kannada-kmolhGgaehi.html|archive-date=22 October 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Puneeth Rajkumar have sung a song "Kanna Sanne Indhalene" for [[Akira (2016 Kannada film)|Akira]] movie which was composed by [[B. Ajaneesh Loknath]]. He has revealed that his compensation for singing for other than his home-productions goes to charity.<ref>{{cite web|date=13 August 2013|title=Puneeth's remuneration for singing goes to charity|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/news/puneeths-remuneration-for-singing-goes-to-charity/articleshow/21843600.cms|access-date=|work=The Times of India}}</ref>
Puneeth Rajkumar has sung a song "Kanna Sanne Indhalene" for [[Akira (2016 Kannada film)|Akira]] movie which was composed by [[B. Ajaneesh Loknath]]. He has revealed that his compensation for singing for other than his home-productions goes to charity.<ref>{{cite web|date=13 August 2013|title=Puneeth's remuneration for singing goes to charity|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/news/puneeths-remuneration-for-singing-goes-to-charity/articleshow/21843600.cms|access-date=|work=The Times of India}}</ref>


===Television===
===Television===
In 2012, Puneeth hosted the first season of ''[[Kannadada Kotyadhipati]]'', modelled on the Hindi show ''[[Kaun Banega Crorepati]]'', which in turn, was modelled on the British show ''[[Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?]]''.<ref name="Koti">{{cite web|last=Tantri|first=Balaraj|url=http://kannada.oneindia.in/movies/tv/2012/01/04-over-lac-sms-for-kannadada-kotyadipathi-aid0189.html|title =ಕೋಟ್ಯಾಧಿಪತಿಗೆ ನೂಕುನುಗ್ಗಲು, 4ಲಕ್ಷ ಎಸ್ಎಂಎಸ್- 04 over lac sms for kannadada kotyadipathi – Oneindia Kannada|website=Oneindia|date=4 January 2012|access-date=12 July 2012}}</ref> Its first season was successful <ref name="chitraloka.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.chitraloka.com/news/2206-kannadada-kotyadhipathi-season-2.html |title=Kannadada Kotyadhipathi Season 2 – chitraloka.com &#124; Kannada Movie News, Reviews &#124; Image|publisher=Chitraloka|date=12 December 2012|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> and a second season followed. The success of second season was cited as a prime reason for Suvarna channel replacing Udaya TV from the top slot for the first time in 19 years.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://chitraloka.com/exclusive/3671-the-biggest-tv-story-in-20-years-analysis.html|title=The Biggest TV Story in 20 Years - Analysis - chitraloka.com &#124; Kannada Movie News, Reviews &#124; Image|website=chitraloka.com}}</ref>  He again hosted the fourth season replacing [[Ramesh Aravind]].<ref name="PRK Production">{{Cite web|url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/interview-will-act-in-my-home-production-shortly/articleshow/69847613.cms|title=Puneeth Rajkumar: Will act in my home production shortly|website=Bangalore Mirror}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://vijaykarnataka.com/tv/news/kannadada-kotyadhipati-reality-show-starts-soon-in-colors-kannada-channel/articleshow/68653110.cms|title=ಸದ್ಯದಲ್ಲೇ ಟಿವಿ ವೀಕ್ಷಕರಿಗೆ 'ದರ್ಶನ' ಕೊಡಲಿರುವ ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್‌ಕುಮಾರ್|website=Vijaya Karnataka}}</ref><ref name="ibnlive.in.com">{{cite news|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kannada-actor-upendra-plays-game-show-kannadada-kotyadipathi/386731-71-205.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130501040658/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kannada-actor-upendra-plays-game-show-kannadada-kotyadipathi/386731-71-205.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=1 May 2013|title=Kannada actor plays 'Kannadada Kotyadipathi' – IBNLive |website=Ibnlive.in.com|date=20 April 2013|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> He also went to be the host of [[Colors Kannada]]'s [[reality show]], ''[[Family Power]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/puneeth-will-get-families-together/articleshow/60960798.cms|title=Puneeth will get families together|website=Bangalore Mirror}}</ref> Currently he is producing a serial ''Netravathi'' in [[Udaya TV]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.prajavani.net/entertainment/tv/kannada-actor-puneeth-rajkumar-to-produce-tv-serial-809887.html|title=ನೇತ್ರಾವತಿ ಧಾರಾವಾಹಿ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಕ್ಕೆ ಮುಂದಾದ ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್ ಕುಮಾರ್|date=|accessdate=15 May 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/kannada/new-soap-opera-netharavathi-goes-on-air-from-monday/articleshow/81429451.cms|title=New soap opera Netharavathi goes on air from Monday|date=10 March 2021|accessdate=15 May 2021}}</ref>
In 2012, Puneeth hosted the first season of ''[[Kannadada Kotyadhipati]]'', modelled on the Hindi show ''[[Kaun Banega Crorepati]]'', which in turn, was modelled on the British show ''[[Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?]]''.<ref name="Koti">{{cite web|last=Tantri|first=Balaraj|url=http://kannada.oneindia.in/movies/tv/2012/01/04-over-lac-sms-for-kannadada-kotyadipathi-aid0189.html|title =ಕೋಟ್ಯಾಧಿಪತಿಗೆ ನೂಕುನುಗ್ಗಲು, 4ಲಕ್ಷ ಎಸ್ಎಂಎಸ್|website=Oneindia|date=4 January 2012|access-date=12 July 2012|lang=kn}}</ref> Its first season was successful<ref name="chitraloka.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.chitraloka.com/news/2206-kannadada-kotyadhipathi-season-2.html |title=Kannadada Kotyadhipathi Season 2 |website=chitraloka.com|date=12 December 2012|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> and a second season followed. The success of second season was cited as a prime reason for Suvarna channel replacing Udaya TV from the top slot for the first time in 19 years.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://chitraloka.com/exclusive/3671-the-biggest-tv-story-in-20-years-analysis.html|title=The Biggest TV Story in 20 Years - Analysis|website=chitraloka.com|date=3 August 2013|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref>  He again hosted the fourth season replacing [[Ramesh Aravind]].<ref name="PRK Production">{{Cite web|url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/interview-will-act-in-my-home-production-shortly/articleshow/69847613.cms|title=Puneeth Rajkumar: Will act in my home production shortly|website=Bangalore Mirror|date=19 June 2019|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://vijaykarnataka.com/tv/news/kannadada-kotyadhipati-reality-show-starts-soon-in-colors-kannada-channel/articleshow/68653110.cms|title=ಸದ್ಯದಲ್ಲೇ ಟಿವಿ ವೀಕ್ಷಕರಿಗೆ 'ದರ್ಶನ' ಕೊಡಲಿರುವ ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್‌ಕುಮಾರ್|website=Vijaya Karnataka|date=31 March 2019|access-date=31 October 2021|lang=kn}}</ref><ref name="ibnlive.in.com">{{cite news|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kannada-actor-upendra-plays-game-show-kannadada-kotyadipathi/386731-71-205.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130501040658/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kannada-actor-upendra-plays-game-show-kannadada-kotyadipathi/386731-71-205.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=1 May 2013|title=Kannada actor plays 'Kannadada Kotyadipathi' – IBNLive |website=Ibnlive.in.com|date=20 April 2013|access-date=20 January 2016}}</ref> He also went to be the host of [[Colors Kannada]]'s [[reality show]], ''[[Family Power]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/puneeth-will-get-families-together/articleshow/60960798.cms|author=Shyam Prasad S|title=Puneeth will get families together|website=Bangalore Mirror|date=6 October 2017|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref> He was producing a serial ''Netravathi'' in [[Udaya TV]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.prajavani.net/entertainment/tv/kannada-actor-puneeth-rajkumar-to-produce-tv-serial-809887.html|title=ನೇತ್ರಾವತಿ ಧಾರಾವಾಹಿ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಕ್ಕೆ ಮುಂದಾದ ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್ ಕುಮಾರ್|publisher=[[Prajavani]]|date=2 March 2021|accessdate=15 May 2021|lang=kn}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/kannada/new-soap-opera-netharavathi-goes-on-air-from-monday/articleshow/81429451.cms|title=New soap opera Netharavathi goes on air from Monday|website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com|date=10 March 2021|accessdate=15 May 2021}}</ref>
 
== Personal life ==
Puneeth married Ashwini Revanth from Chikkamagaluru on 1 December 1999. They met through a common friend, and have two daughters: Drithi and Vanditha.<ref>{{cite web|title=16 Years Marital Bliss For Powerstar Puneeth Rajkumar & Wife Ashwini|url=http://www.filmibeat.com/kannada/news/2015/puneeth-rajkumar-and-ashwini-wedding-pictures-dodmane-huduga-and-chakravyuha-207029.html|work=Filmibeat}}</ref>. On 29 October 2021, He suffered a massive heart attack and was brought to Vikram Hospital in Bengaluru for treatment. But passed away that day itself.<ref name="india.com">{{cite news|last1=Desk|first1=India com Entertainment|title=Kannada Actor Puneeth Rajkumar Dies of Heart Attack, Sonu Sood Tweets|language=en|work=www.india.com|url=https://www.india.com/entertainment/puneeth-rajkumar-dead-heart-attack-chest-pain-sonu-sood-lakshmi-manchu-tweet-kannada-actor-news-5075122/|access-date=29 October 2021}}</ref>
 
==Other works==
Puneeth has been involved in philanthropy with his mother at the Shakti Dhama [[ashram]] in [[Mysore]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.youthindies.com/2011/07/punith-rajkumar-bio-profile-childhood-pics-wife-marriage-daughter-family-photos.html|title=Punith Rajkumar Bio Profile Childhood Pics Wife Marriage Daughter Family Photos|publisher=Youth Indies|date=10 July 2011|access-date=12 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120805043016/http://www.youthindies.com/2011/07/punith-rajkumar-bio-profile-childhood-pics-wife-marriage-daughter-family-photos.html|archive-date=5 August 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> and owns the Bengaluru [[Premier Futsal]] team.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/sport-others/premier-futsal-rules-teams-fixtures-results-giggs-ronaldinho-scholes-falcao-virat-kohli-luis-figo-2911522/|title=Premier Futsal: Rules, teams, fixtures, everything you need to know|website=indianexpress.com|access-date=22 January 2017}}</ref>


===Endorsements===
===Endorsements===
Puneeth has been a brand ambassador for [[Karnataka Milk Federation]]'s Nandini Milk products, LED Bulb Project,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/puneeth-and-ramya-are-brand-ambassadors-of-led-project/article7910374.ece|title=Puneeth and Ramya are brand ambassadors of LED project|first=B. s Satish|last=Kumar|date=24 November 2015|via=www.thehindu.com}}</ref> [[7 Up]] ([[PepsiCo]]), F-Square, Dixcy Scott, Malabar Gold,<ref name="Ddd.in.com">{{cite web|url=http://ddd.in.com/news/entertainment/fullstory-Puneeth-rajkumar-is-brand-ambassador-of-gold-10203765-3fcfb159f25efce940d40e48f5072208a620f8f4-1.html|title=The Hindu – Puneeth Rajkumar is brand ambassador of Malabar Gold|website=Ddd.in.com|date=31 July 2009|access-date=26 August 2010}} {{dead link|date=January 2017}}</ref> [[Gold Winner]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://businesswireindia.com/news/fulldetails/gold-winner-vita-d3-adds-star-power-signs-up-puneeth-rajkumar-as-brand-ambassador/53866|title = Gold Winner Vita D3+ Adds Star Power Signs up Puneeth Rajkumar as Brand Ambassador}}</ref> Ziox Mobile,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/ziox-mobiles-ropes-in-puneeth-rajkumar-as-brand-ambassador/article8361000.ece|title=Ziox Mobiles ropes in Puneeth Rajkumar as brand ambassador|first=Anil|last=Urs|website=@businessline}}</ref> Pothy silks, [[Flipkart]] and [[Manappuram General Finance and Leasing Ltd|Manappuram]],<ref name="Manappuram.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.manappuram.com/php/newsContent.php?newsId=24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100926215532/http://manappuram.com/php/newsContent.php?newsId=24|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 September 2010|title=MANAPPURAM FINANCE – Gold Loan &#124; Loan against Gold Ornaments &#124; Loan against Gold Jewellery &#124; Jewel Loan|publisher=Manappuram.com |date=31 March 2010|access-date=26 August 2010}}</ref> and was a brand ambassador of the [[Indian Premier League]] cricket team [[Royal Challengers Bangalore]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Puneet Raj Kumar is new Royal Challengers ambassador |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/puneet-raj-kumar-is-new-royal-challengers-ambassador/story-aiQKazIdksyYQ0TMFqzA1I.html |access-date=7 January 2021 |work=Hindustan Times |date=13 March 2010 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= IPL takes a glam beating|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/ipl-takes-a-glam-beating/260438-60-119.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140929144326/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/ipl-takes-a-glam-beating/260438-60-119.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=29 September 2014|website=ibnlive.in.com|date=23 May 2012|access-date=29 September 2014|url-access=subscription }}</ref>
Puneeth was a brand ambassador for [[Karnataka Milk Federation]]'s Nandini Milk products, LED Bulb Project,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/puneeth-and-ramya-are-brand-ambassadors-of-led-project/article7910374.ece|title=Puneeth and Ramya are brand ambassadors of LED project|first=B. s Satish|last=Kumar|newspaper=The Hindu|date=24 November 2015|via=www.thehindu.com}}</ref> [[7 Up]] ([[PepsiCo]]), F-Square, Dixcy Scott, Malabar Gold,<ref>{{Cite news|title=Puneeth Rajkumar launches Malabar Gold collection|url=https://www.mangaloretoday.com/main/Puneeth-Rajkumar-launches-Malabar-Gold-collection.html|url-status=live|access-date=29 October 2021|website=[[Mangalore Today]]}}</ref> [[Gold Winner]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://businesswireindia.com/news/fulldetails/gold-winner-vita-d3-adds-star-power-signs-up-puneeth-rajkumar-as-brand-ambassador/53866|title = Gold Winner Vita D3+ Adds Star Power Signs up Puneeth Rajkumar as Brand Ambassador|website=businesswireindia.com|date=21 July 2017|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref> Ziox Mobile,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/ziox-mobiles-ropes-in-puneeth-rajkumar-as-brand-ambassador/article8361000.ece|title=Ziox Mobiles ropes in Puneeth Rajkumar as brand ambassador|first=Anil|last=Urs|website=thehindubusinessline.com|date=20 January 2018|access-date=31 October 2021}}</ref> Pothy silks, [[Flipkart]] and [[Manappuram General Finance and Leasing Ltd|Manappuram]],<ref name="Manappuram.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.manappuram.com/php/newsContent.php?newsId=24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100926215532/http://manappuram.com/php/newsContent.php?newsId=24|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 September 2010|title=MANAPPURAM FINANCE – Gold Loan &#124; Loan against Gold Ornaments &#124; Loan against Gold Jewellery &#124; Jewel Loan|publisher=Manappuram.com |date=31 March 2010|access-date=26 August 2010}}</ref> and was a brand ambassador of the [[Indian Premier League]] cricket team [[Royal Challengers Bangalore]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Puneet Raj Kumar is new Royal Challengers ambassador |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/puneet-raj-kumar-is-new-royal-challengers-ambassador/story-aiQKazIdksyYQ0TMFqzA1I.html |access-date=7 January 2021 |work=Hindustan Times |date=13 March 2010 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= IPL takes a glam beating|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/ipl-takes-a-glam-beating/260438-60-119.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140929144326/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/ipl-takes-a-glam-beating/260438-60-119.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=29 September 2014|website=ibnlive.in.com|date=23 May 2012|access-date=29 September 2014|url-access=subscription }}</ref>
Puneeth also owns a team in Premier Futsal, Bengaluru 5.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.goal.com/en-india/news/136/india/2016/07/12/25537222/premier-futsal-kannada-actor-rajkumar-acquires-bengaluru|title=Premier Futsal - Kannada actor Rajkumar acquires Bengaluru franchise &#124; Goal.com|website=www.goal.com}}</ref>


===PRK Audio===
===PRK Audio===
Puneeth is the founder and owner of the music label PRK Audio<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/puneeths-prk-audio-enters-the-music-market-with-the-film-to-be-out-on-nov-24/articleshow/61757476.cms|title=Puneeth's PRK Audio enters the music market with the film; to be out on Nov 24|website=Bangalore Mirror|access-date=4 April 2018}}</ref><ref name="PRK Production"/> with over 1 million subscribers<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPSb5hoJuGd_M421vocSM2A|title=PRK Audio - YouTube|website=www.youtube.com}}</ref> across YouTube.
Puneeth was the founder and owner of the music label PRK Audio; the label's channel on [[YouTube]] had 1.13 million subscribers as of October 2021.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/puneeths-prk-audio-enters-the-music-market-with-the-film-to-be-out-on-nov-24/articleshow/61757476.cms|title=Puneeth's PRK Audio enters the music market with the film; to be out on Nov 24|website=Bangalore Mirror|access-date=4 April 2018}}</ref><ref name="PRK Production"/>
 
== Filmography ==
{{Main|Puneeth Rajkumar filmography}}


== Discography ==
==Death==
{{Main|Puneeth Rajkumar discography}}
On 29 October 2021, Puneeth died in Bangalore from [[Myocardial infarction|heart attack]] at the age of 46.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{cite news |title=Puneeth Rajkumar passes away at 46 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/puneeth-rajkumar-dead-at-46-7596693/ |work=The Indian Express |date=29 October 2021 |language=en}}</ref> He [[Corneal transplantation|donated his eyes]] in accordance with a pledge by his father Rajkumar, that he along with all his family members will donate their eyes after death.<ref>{{cite news |title=Like father, like son: Puneeth Rajkumar donates eyes |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/state/like-father-like-son-puneeth-rajkumar-donates-eyes-1045640.html |access-date=30 October 2021 |work=Deccan Herald |date=30 October 2021 |language=en}}</ref> His [[state funeral]] was attended by the [[Chief Minister of Karnataka]] and other leaders.<ref name="Final Salute" /> His funeral was reportedly attended by more than 25 lakh people.<ref>{{Cite web|date=31 October 2021|title=Family, fans bid Puneeth Rajkumar tearful farewell|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/state/top-karnataka-stories/family-fans-bid-puneeth-rajkumar-tearful-farewell-1045918.html|access-date=31 October 2021|website=Deccan Herald|language=en}}</ref> He was [[Lingayatism#Funeral_rites|buried]] at Sree Kanteerava Studios in Bangalore.<ref name="Final Salute">{{cite news |title="Final Salute": Actor Puneeth Rajkumar Paid Last Respects In Karnataka |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/actor-puneeth-rajkumar-paid-last-respects-in-karnataka-final-salute-says-chief-minister-basavaraj-bommai-2594207 |work=NDTV.com |date=31 October 2021}}</ref>


==Awards and nominations==
==Awards==
 
{{Main|List of awards and nominations received by Puneeth Rajkumar|}}
{{BLP more citations needed|section|date=September 2021}}
 
{{Infobox actor awards
|name = Puneeth Rajkumar
| image = PUNEETH RAJKUMAR.jpg
| caption = Puneeth in 2017
|wins =  24
|nominations = 35
|award4 = [[Filmfare Awards]]
|award4W = 5
|award4N =  10
|award2 = [[Karnataka State Film Awards]]
|award2W = 6
|award2N =  6
|award1 = [[National Film Awards]]
|award1W = 1
|award1N = 1
|award3 = [[South Indian International Movie Awards|SIIMA]]
|award3W = 4
|award3N = 7
|award7 = Others
|award7W = 10
|award7N = 13
}}
 
;[[National Film Awards]]
{{awards table}}
|-
|[[33rd National Film Awards|1985]]
| ''[[Bettada Hoovu]]''
| [[National Film Award for Best Child Artist|Best Child Artist]]<ref>{{cite web|title=33rd National Film Awards|url=http://iffi.nic.in/Dff2011/Frm33NFAAward.aspx|publisher=Directorate of Film Festivals|access-date=30 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140505170442/http://iffi.nic.in/Dff2011/Frm33NFAAward.aspx|archive-date=5 May 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|{{won}}
|-
{{end}}
 
;[[Karnataka State Film Awards]]
{{awards table}}
|-
|1982-83
|''[[Chalisuva Modagalu]]''
|[[Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor (Male)|Best Child Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|1983–84
|''[[Eradu Nakshatragalu]]''
|[[Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor (Male)|Best Child Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|2007–08
|''[[Milana (film)|Milana]]''
|[[Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|2010–11
|''[[Jackie (2010 film)|Jackie]]''
|[[Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
{{end}}
 
;[[South Indian International Movie Awards]]
{{awards table}}
|-
|[[1st South Indian International Movie Awards|2011]]
| ''[[Hudugaru]]''
| [[South Indian International Movie Awards|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|[[2nd South Indian International Movie Awards|2012]]
|''[[Anna Bond]]''
|[[South Indian International Movie Awards|Best Actor]]
|{{nom}}
|-
|[[3rd South Indian International Movie Awards|2013]]
|''[[Yaare Koogadali]]''
|[[Award|Youth Icon of South Indian Cinema (male)]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.siima.in/winners-2013.php|title=SIIMA 2013 Awards|publisher=[[South Indian International Movie Awards]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140917171749/http://siima.in/winners-2013.php|archive-date=17 September 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|{{won}}
|-
|[[5th South Indian International Movie Awards|2016]]
|''[[Rana Vikrama]]''
|[[South Indian International Movie Awards|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|[[6th South Indian International Movie Awards|2017]]
|''[[Doddmane Hudga]]''
|[[South Indian International Movie Awards|Best Actor]]
|{{nom}}
|-
|[[7th South Indian International Movie Awards|2018]]
|''[[Raajakumara]]''
|[[South Indian International Movie Awards|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|[[9th South Indian International Movie Awards|2019]]
|''[[Natasaarvabhowma]]''
|[[South Indian International Movie Awards|Best Actor]]
|{{nom}}
|-
|}
 
; [[Filmfare Awards South]]
{{awards table}}
|-
|[[33rd Filmfare Awards South|1985]]
|''[[Bettada Hoovu]]''
|[[Filmfare Special Award - South|Filmfare Best Child Actor]]<ref>Refer watch hotstar Tamil 63rd Filmfare awards episode red carpet puneet rajkumar told in 1986 I won best child actor award from filmfare Chennai at shanmugananda hall</ref>
|{{won}}
|-
|[[54th Filmfare Awards South|2007]]
|''[[Arasu (2007 film)|Arasu]]''
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor&nbsp;– Kannada|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|[[59th Filmfare Awards South|2011]]
|''[[Hudugaru]]''
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor&nbsp;– Kannada|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|[[60th Filmfare Awards South|2012]]
|''[[Anna Bond]]''
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor&nbsp;– Kannada|Best Actor]]
|{{nom}}
|-
|[[62nd Filmfare Awards South|2014]]
|''[[Power (2014 Kannada film)|Power]]''
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor&nbsp;– Kannada|Best Actor]]
|{{nom}}
|-
|[[63rd Filmfare Awards South|2015]]
|''[[Rana Vikrama]]''
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor&nbsp;– Kannada|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|-
|[[64th Filmfare Awards South|2016]]
|''[[Doddmane Hudga]]''
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor&nbsp;– Kannada|Best Actor]]
|{{nom}}
|-
|[[65th Filmfare Awards South|2017]]
|''[[Raajakumara]]''
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor&nbsp;– Kannada|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
{{end}}
 
*[[64th Filmfare Awards South|2016]]: Best Playback Singer- Male – ''[[Run Antony]]'' – Nominated for 'Jhanak Jhanak'
*[[62nd Filmfare Awards South|2014]]: Best Playback Singer- Male – ''[[Power (2014 Kannada film)|Power***]]'' – Nominated for 'Guruvara Sange'
 
; [[Suvarna Film Awards]]
The '''[[Suvarna Film Awards]]''' are presented by ''[[Asianet Suvarna]]'', a Kannada television channel to honour artists in [[Kannada cinema]]. The awards were established in 2008.
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year
! Nominated work
! Category
! Result
|-
| style="text-align:center;"| 2008
| style="text-align: center;"|''[[Milana (film)|Milana]]''
| style="text-align: center;" |[[Suvarna Film Awards#Best Actor|Best Actor]]
| {{won}}
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|2010
| style="text-align: center;"|''[[Jackie (2010 film)|Jackie]]''
| style="text-align: center;" |[[Suvarna Film Awards#Best Actor|Best Actor]]
| {{won}}
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|2013
| style="text-align: center;"|''[[Anna Bond]]''
| style="text-align: center;" |[[Suvarna Film Awards#Favorite Hero|Favorite Hero]]
| {{won}}
{{end}}
 
; South Scope Award
The '''[[South Scope|South Scope Award for Best Actor]]''' are presented by ''[[Southscope]]'',  is an Indian-based, monthly, English-language film magazine which focuses on South Indian films The awards were established in 2008.
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year
! Nominated work
! Category
! Result
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|2008
| style="text-align: center;"|''[[Vamshi (film)|Vamshi]]''
| style="text-align: center;" |[[Southscope#Best Actor|Best Actor]]
| {{won}}
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|2009
| style="text-align: center;"|''[[Raaj - The Showman]]''
| style="text-align: center;" |[[Southscope#Best Actor|Best Actor]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Manasaare sweeps Lux South Scope Awards|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/manasaare-sweeps-lux-south-scope-awards-imagegallery-kannada-kjwpGJihgfgsi.html|website=Sify|access-date=30 September 2015}}</ref>
| {{won}}
{{end}}
 
;[[IIFA Utsavam]]
*[[2nd IIFA Utsavam|2017]]: Best Playback Singer- Male – ''[[Nanna Ninna Prema Kathe]]'' – Nominated for 'Maduve Munji'
*[[2nd IIFA Utsavam|2017]]: Best Playback Singer- Male – ''[[Run Anthony]]'' – Nominated for 'Jhanak Jhanak'
 
; Other awards
*2010: Udaya Film Award for Best Actor — ''Jackie''
*2015: Zee Music Awards For Best Singer – "Adhyaksha"
*2016: [[Mirchi Music Awards South]] – Sensational Singer Of The Year, 2015
*2018: Zee Kannada Hemmeya Kannadiga Award for Best Actor Male – [[Raajakumara]]
*2018: Love Lavike Readers Choice Award for Best Actor Male – [[Raajakumara]]
*2019: Nominated- TSR National Film Award for Best Actor- [[Raajakumara]]


==References==
==References==
Line 302: Line 91:


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category}}
* {{Twitter|PuneethRajkumar}}
* {{Twitter|PuneethRajkumar}}
* {{IMDb name|4272017}}
* {{IMDb name|4272017}}


{{commons category}}
{{FilmfareKannadaBestActor}}
{{FilmfareKannadaBestActor}}
{{SIIMA Award for Best Actor}}
{{SIIMA Award for Best Actor}}
Line 313: Line 102:
{{DEFAULTSORT:Rajkumar, Puneeth}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Rajkumar, Puneeth}}
[[Category:1975 births]]
[[Category:1975 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:2021 deaths]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]]
Line 331: Line 120:
[[Category:Indian male voice actors]]
[[Category:Indian male voice actors]]
[[Category:Singers from Bangalore]]
[[Category:Singers from Bangalore]]
[[Category:Indian male film singers]]
[[Category:Indian male playback singers]]
[[Category:South Indian International Movie Awards winners]]
[[Category:South Indian International Movie Awards winners]]
[[Category:Indian film producers]]
[[Category:Indian film producers]]
Line 342: Line 131:
[[Category:Indian child singers]]
[[Category:Indian child singers]]
[[Category:Indian stunt performers]]
[[Category:Indian stunt performers]]
 
[[Category:State funerals in India]]
[[te:పునీత్ రాజ్‍కుమార్]]
[[Category:Rajkumar family]]

Revision as of 18:07, 19 November 2021


In this Indian name, the name Rajkumar is a patronymic, and the person should be referred to by the given name, Puneeth.

Puneeth Rajkumar
File:Puneeth Rajkumar (cropped).jpg
Born
Lohith Rajkumar

17 March 1975 (1975-03-17)
Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India
Died29 October 2021(2021-10-29) (aged 46)
Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Other namesAppu
Occupation
  • Actor
  • singer
  • producer
  • television presenter
Years active
  • 1976–1989
  • 2002–2021
Spouse(s)
Ashwini Revanth
(
m. 1999)
Children2
Parents
RelativesSee Rajkumar family

Puneeth Rajkumar (17 March 1975 – 29 October 2021), colloquially known as Appu, was an Indian actor, playback singer, television presenter, and producer who worked primarily in Kannada cinema. He was a lead actor in 29 films; as a child, he appeared in many films. His performances in Vasantha Geetha (1980), Bhagyavantha (1981), Chalisuva Modagalu (1982), Eradu Nakshatragalu (1983), Bhakta Prahaladha, Yarivanu and Bettada Hoovu (1985) were praised.[1] He won the National Film Award for Best Child Artist for his role of Ramu in Bettada Hoovu.[2] He also won Karnataka State Award Best Child artist for Chalisuva Modagalu and Eradu Nakshatragalu. Puneeth's first lead role was in 2002's Appu. Karnataka Government has announced State's highest civilian award Karnataka Ratna for Puneeth, posthumously, in November 2021.[3]

He has been dubbed by media and fans as "Powerstar". He appeared as a lead actor in commercially successful films, including Appu (2002), Abhi (2003), Veera Kannadiga (2004), Mourya (2004), Aakash (2005), Ajay (2006), Arasu (2007), Milana (2007), Vamshi (2008), Raam (2009), Jackie (2010), Hudugaru (2011), Raajakumara (2017), and Anjani Putra (2017).[4][5] He was one of the most famous celebrities and the highest-paid actors in the Kannada cinema.[6] In 2012, he debuted as a television presenter on the game show Kannadada Kotyadhipati, a Kannada version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?.[7][8]

Personal life

Puneeth (born Lohith) was born in Chennai to the matinee idol Dr. Rajkumar and Parvathamma Rajkumar on 17 March 1975. He was their fifth and youngest child. When Puneeth was six years old, his family moved to Mysore. His father brought him and his sister Poornima to his film sets until he was ten years old.[9][2] His elder brother, Shiva Rajkumar, is also a professional actor.[10]

Puneeth married Ashwini Revanth from Chikmagalur on 1 December 1999. They met through a common friend, and had two daughters.[11]

Acting career

See also: Puneeth Rajkumar filmography

1976–1989: As child actor

Director V. Somashekar cast Puneeth (then known as Lohith) onscreen when he was six months old in his thriller film Premada Kanike (1976), and Aarathi.[12] This was followed by Vijay's Sanaadi Appanna (1977), based on Krishnamoorthy Puranik's novel of the same name,[13] when Puneeth was one year old. Thayige Thakka Maga (1978) was again directed by V. Somashekar and starred his father. Two years later, directors Dorai-Bhagavan cast him as Shyam in Vasantha Geetha (1980). This was followed by K. S. L. Swamy's mythological drama Bhoomige Banda Bhagavantha (1981, appearing as Lord Krishna) and B. S. Ranga's Bhagyavantha (1982),[14] in which he recorded his first popular song: "Baana Daariyalli Soorya", composed by T. G. Lingappa. That year, he appeared in two hit films (Chalisuva Modagalu and Hosa Belaku) with his father. For the former, Puneeth received his first Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor (Male). In 1983, he appeared in two mythological films: Bhakta Prahlada as the protagonist, Prahlada, and Eradu Nakshatragalu, for which he received his second Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor.[15]

In 1984, Puneeth starred with Rajkumar in the thriller Yarivanu and sang "Kannige Kaanuva", written by Rajan–Nagendra. His biggest break as a child actor came in the 1985 drama Bettada Hoovu, directed by N. Lakshminarayan and based on Shirley L. Arora's novel What Then, Raman? For his portrayal of the innocent Ramu, Puneeth received the award for Best Child Artist at the 33rd National Film Awards.[16] In his early teens, he appeared in Shiva Mecchida Kannappa (1988) as the young Kannappa with his elder brother, Shiva. Puneeth's final child role was in Parashuram (1989), with his father.[17]

2002–2007: Debut as lead and breakthrough

In April 2002, Puneeth made his film debut as a leading man in the masala film, Appu with actress, Rakshita also making her film debut.[18] The musical by Gurukiran, directed by Puri Jagannadh and produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar, in which he played a college boy, was a box office success and critics praised his dancing skills. Puneeth sang "Taliban Alla Alla", with lyrics by Upendra and music by Gurukiran. The film's success spawned remakes in Telugu (Idiot (2002)) and Tamil (Dum (2003)).[19]

Puneeth next appeared in Dinesh Babu's Abhi (2003) as a plucky college boy who is devoted to his mother. In the film, based on a true story and produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar, he starred with debutante Ramya.[20]

Meher Ramesh's Veera Kannadiga was Puneeth's first 2004 release. The film, written by Puri Jagannadh, was simultaneously made in Telugu as Andhrawala with N. T. Rama Rao Jr. in the lead role. Paired with debutante Anitha, it showcased his dancing and stunt skills. Although the film was criticised for its violence and poor plot, it was successful at the box office.[21] Puneeth next starred in S. Narayan's family drama Maurya, a remake of the Telugu Amma Nanna O Tamila Ammayi, starring Ravi Teja and written by Puri Jagannadh. The remake enhanced Puneeth's reputation as an actor in his own right.[22]

He released two films in 2005. Mahesh Babu's Aakash reunited Puneeth with Ramya (from Abhi) and he appeared in Veera Shankar's action film Namma Basava, with Gowri Munjal. He recorded songs in both films. Puneeth's only 2006 release was Ajay, directed by Meher Ramesh and produced by Rockline Venkatesh. In the film, a remake of the 2003 Telugu Okkadu, he played a professional kabaddi player who protects a girl endangered by her uncle (played by Prakash Raj). As a result of these films, Puneeth was called the "Powerstar of Sandalwood".[23]

Puneeth's first release in 2007 was his production Arasu, directed by Mahesh Babu, in which he played an expatriate businessman who renounces his wealth for the woman he loves. For his performance, he received his first Filmfare Best Actor award.[24] Puneeth's other release that year was Prakash's reaffirmation of traditional family values Milana. Actress Parvathy Parvathy (actress) made her debut into Kannada films with this film. Puneeth played the radio jockey Akash. For the film, he received his first Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor.[25]

2008–2015: Other films

The actor released two films in 2008: D. Rajendra Babu's Bindaas and Prakash's Vamshi. Puneeth's first 2009 release was Raaj - The Showman. Although the film (directed by Prem) was criticised, his performance was praised.[26] His other film Raam, with Priyamani, was a remake of the Telugu hit Ready.[27]

Puneeth returned to the limelight in 2010 with back-to-back hits. The first was Jacob Varghese's political thriller Prithvi, in which he played a bureaucrat in Ballari district who fights corruption. His next release was the action film Jackie, directed by Duniya Soori,[28] which was a commercial success. In 2011, Puneeth co-starred in K. Madesh's Hudugaru, a remake of the Tamil film Nadodigal[29] in which he reprised M. Sasikumar's role in the original. For his performance, he received his second Filmfare and first SIIMA Best Actor awards.[30] In Yogaraj Bhat's travelogue Paramathma, Puneeth's next release, his character searches for love.[31]

He worked with Soori again in 2012 on the action film Anna Bond, produced by Parvathamma Rajkumar.[32] For his performance, he received the Suvarna Best Actor award and was nominated for an IIFA award. Puneeth starred in another Tamil remake Poraali, filmed in Kannada as Yaare Koogadali, by Samuthirakani.[33]

In 2014, Puneeth starred in Jayanth C. Paranjee's romance Ninnindale, with Erica Fernandes. Although his performance as a New York-based adventure enthusiast based in New York was praised by critics,[34] the film was unsuccessful at the box office. Puneeth's next release was K. Madesh's Power***, a remake of the Telugu film Dookudu. Appearing with Trisha for the first time, he played a tough police officer. The film earned a record ₹22 crore (₹220 million) in six days.[35] In 2015, he played himself in B. M. Giriraj's film Mythri, which also starred Mohanlal and Bhavana.[36] Puneeth's other release that year was Pawan Wadeyar's Rana Vikrama, an action film with Adah Sharma and Anjali.[37]

2016–2021

In March 2016, Puneeth worked for M. Saravanan's Chakravyuha and Duniya Soori's Doddmane Hudga. In 2017, he appeared in Santhosh Ananddram 's Raajakumara, which broke all-records in box-office and became the highest-grossing Kannada-language film of all time beating previous record of Mungaru Male,[38][39] later the record was taken up by the movie K.G.F: Chapter 1. He also had the starring role in A Harsha's Anjani Putra alongside with Rashmika Mandanna, which was remake of Tamil film Poojai. Puneeth Rajkumar has played narrator role in the Anup Bhandari directed Rajaratha. In 2019 his film Natasaarvabhowma was released and also had commercial success.[40][41]

Other works

Puneeth was involved in philanthropy with his mother at the Shakti Dhama ashram in Mysore,[42] and owned the Bengaluru Royals, Premier Futsal team.[43][44]

Playback singing

Main article: Puneeth Rajkumar discography

Puneeth, just like his father, is one of very few actors who have excelled in professional singing too. He sang alone in Appu, and sang a duet on "Jothe Jotheyali" from Vamshi.[45] He sang a fast number in Jackie and sang in his brother Shiva's films Lava Kusha and Mylari.[46] Puneeth Rajkumar has sung a song "Kanna Sanne Indhalene" for Akira movie which was composed by B. Ajaneesh Loknath. He has revealed that his compensation for singing for other than his home-productions goes to charity.[47]

Television

In 2012, Puneeth hosted the first season of Kannadada Kotyadhipati, modelled on the Hindi show Kaun Banega Crorepati, which in turn, was modelled on the British show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?.[7] Its first season was successful[48] and a second season followed. The success of second season was cited as a prime reason for Suvarna channel replacing Udaya TV from the top slot for the first time in 19 years.[49] He again hosted the fourth season replacing Ramesh Aravind.[50][51][52] He also went to be the host of Colors Kannada's reality show, Family Power.[53] He was producing a serial Netravathi in Udaya TV.[54][55]

Endorsements

Puneeth was a brand ambassador for Karnataka Milk Federation's Nandini Milk products, LED Bulb Project,[56] 7 Up (PepsiCo), F-Square, Dixcy Scott, Malabar Gold,[57] Gold Winner,[58] Ziox Mobile,[59] Pothy silks, Flipkart and Manappuram,[60] and was a brand ambassador of the Indian Premier League cricket team Royal Challengers Bangalore.[61][62]

PRK Audio

Puneeth was the founder and owner of the music label PRK Audio; the label's channel on YouTube had 1.13 million subscribers as of October 2021.[63][50]

Death

On 29 October 2021, Puneeth died in Bangalore from heart attack at the age of 46.[2][64] He donated his eyes in accordance with a pledge by his father Rajkumar, that he along with all his family members will donate their eyes after death.[65] His state funeral was attended by the Chief Minister of Karnataka and other leaders.[66] His funeral was reportedly attended by more than 25 lakh people.[67] He was buried at Sree Kanteerava Studios in Bangalore.[66]

Awards

Main article: List of awards and nominations received by Puneeth Rajkumar

References

  1. ↑ "Puneeth Rajkumar Biography, Life Story, Career, Awards & Achievements". Filmibeat. Retrieved 23 December 2018.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Bharadwaj, K. V. Aditya (30 October 2021). "For Puneeth Rajkumar, this was no time to die". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 8 November 2021.
  3. ↑ "Karnataka Ratna for Puneeth". The Hindu. 16 November 2021. Retrieved 18 November 2021.
  4. ↑ "Superstars of the Kannada Film Industry". Archived from the original on 24 July 2016. Retrieved 27 November 2016.
  5. ↑ "3 films for Puneeth, Puneeth Rajkumar this year". The Times of India.
  6. ↑ "Top 20 Highest Paid South Indian Actors of 2014". International Business Times. ibtimes.co.in. 16 December 2014.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 Tantri, Balaraj (4 January 2012). "ಕೋಟ್ಯಾಧಿಪತಿಗೆ ನೂಕುನುಗ್ಗಲು, 4ಲಕ್ಷ ಎಸ್ಎಂಎಸ್". Oneindia (in ಕನ್ನಡ). Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  8. ↑ "Puneeth Rajkumar: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography & Birthday | eTimes". timesofindia.indiatimes.com. Retrieved 7 January 2021.
  9. ↑ "I can never be my father". The Times of India. 15 November 2010. Archived from the original on 6 December 2014. Retrieved 25 September 2014.
  10. ↑ "After Puneeth Rajkumar's death, elder brother Shiva Rajkumar's Bhajrangi 2 shows cancelled". India Today. 29 October 2021. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  11. ↑ Veena (2 December 2015). "16 Years Marital Bliss For Powerstar Puneeth Rajkumar & Wife Ashwini". Filmibeat. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  12. ↑ "Naa Bidalare Ninnanu – Premada Kanike – Rajkumar Hits". YouTube. 19 July 2011. Archived from the original on 15 February 2016. Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  13. ↑ "Naane Thaayi Naane Thande – Sanadi Appanna (1977) – Kannada". YouTube. Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  14. ↑ "Puneeth Rajkumar: Movies, Photos, Videos, News, Biography & Birthday | eTimes". timesofindia.indiatimes.com. Retrieved 11 June 2019.
  15. ↑ "Everyone's Appu: Recalling Puneeth Rajkumar's contributions to cinema". The News Minute. 30 October 2021. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  16. ↑ "Puneeth Rajkumar won a national award as a child artist". The Times of India. TNN. 28 February 2014. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  17. ↑ Sathyendran, Nita (12 March 2011). "My name is Parvathy". The Hindu – via www.thehindu.com.
  18. ↑ "The return of the son". Rediff.com. 27 February 2002. Archived from the original on 9 December 2014. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  19. ↑ "From 'School Master' to 'U Turn': A look at Kannada films remade in other Indian languages". The Times of India. 15 April 2020. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  20. ↑ "Abhi Movie Review". Chitraloka. 26 April 2003. Archived from the original on 1 April 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  21. ↑ "Veera Kannadiga – film review". Viggy.com. Archived from the original on 24 March 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  22. ↑ "Mourya Movie Review". Chitraloka. 22 October 2004. Archived from the original on 24 March 2016. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  23. ↑ "5 movies that prove that Puneeth Rajkumar is the real Powerstar of Sandalwood!". Today updates. Archived from the original on 24 March 2016.
  24. ↑ "54th Filmfare Awards South Winners". India Interacts. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016.
  25. ↑ "Birthday Exclusive: Puneeth Rajkumar". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 2 June 2015. Retrieved 2 April 2016.
  26. ↑ "Raaj, the Showman disappoints". Rediff.com. 14 August 2009. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  27. ↑ "RAAM MOVIE REVIEW". The Times of India. 14 May 2016. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  28. ↑ "The glitter, the gloss, the razzmatazz". The Times of India. 3 July 2011. Retrieved 20 January 2016.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  29. ↑ "cinemagupshup.com". Cinemagupshup.com. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  30. ↑ Letty Mariam Abraham (10 July 2012). "Puneeth Rajkumar received the Best Actor (Male) Kannada Award for the film Hudugaru". Bollywoodlife.com. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  31. ↑ "News Archives". The Hindu. 3 December 2010. Archived from the original on 7 December 2010. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  32. ↑ "Puneet to work with Soori". Sify. 3 December 2010. Archived from the original on 4 January 2014. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  33. ↑ "Upcoming Movie Releases | Puneet Rajkumar | Puneet Rajkumar Upcoming Movies – Filmibeat". Oneindia. 17 March 1975. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  34. ↑ Shyam Prasad S (7 January 2014). "Movie review: Ninnindale". Bangalore Mirror. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  35. ↑ "'Power***' Box Office: Puneet Starrer Makes Record Collection of ₹22 Crore in 6 Days". IBTimes. 3 September 2014. Retrieved 17 March 2016.
  36. ↑ Prathibha Joy (19 February 2015). "Puneeth, Mohanlalm Atul share the screen". The Times of India. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  37. ↑ Veena (20 March 2015). "EXCLUSIVE: Anjali Completes Dubbing For Puneeth Rajkumar's 'Rana Vikrama'". Filmibeat. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  38. ↑ Upadhyaya, Prakash (1 July 2017). "Sudeep, Yash, Upendra, Jaggesh to join Puneeth's Raajakumara 100-day celebration". International Business Times, India Edition.
  39. ↑ "Rajakumara 100, all time industry hit". indiaglitz.com. 30 June 2017. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  40. ↑ "Natasaarvabhowma going strong at the BO". Bangalore Mirror. 14 February 2019. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  41. ↑ "Natasaarvabhowma Review: An out-and-out Puneeth Rajkumar show". The New Indian Express. 8 February 2019. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  42. ↑ "Punith Rajkumar Bio Profile Childhood Pics Wife Marriage Daughter Family Photos". Youth Indies. 10 July 2011. Archived from the original on 5 August 2012. Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  43. ↑ "Premier Futsal: Rules, teams, fixtures, everything you need to know". indianexpress.com. 15 July 2016. Retrieved 22 January 2017.
  44. ↑ "Premier Futsal - Kannada actor Rajkumar acquires Bengaluru franchise | Goal.com". www.goal.com. 12 July 2016. Archived from the original on 18 July 2016. {{cite web}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 26 September 2010 suggested (help)
  45. ↑ "Desi Shock Media Videos". Media.desishock.com. 6 February 2010. Retrieved 12 July 2012.
  46. ↑ "Myalri creates a big buzz". Sify. 14 December 2010. Archived from the original on 22 October 2012. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  47. ↑ "Puneeth's remuneration for singing goes to charity". The Times of India. 13 August 2013.
  48. ↑ "Kannadada Kotyadhipathi Season 2". chitraloka.com. 12 December 2012. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  49. ↑ "The Biggest TV Story in 20 Years - Analysis". chitraloka.com. 3 August 2013. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  50. ↑ 50.0 50.1 "Puneeth Rajkumar: Will act in my home production shortly". Bangalore Mirror. 19 June 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  51. ↑ "ಸದ್ಯದಲ್ಲೇ ಟಿವಿ ವೀಕ್ಷಕರಿಗೆ 'ದರ್ಶನ' ಕೊಡಲಿರುವ ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್‌ಕುಮಾರ್". Vijaya Karnataka (in ಕನ್ನಡ). 31 March 2019. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  52. ↑ "Kannada actor plays 'Kannadada Kotyadipathi' – IBNLive". Ibnlive.in.com. 20 April 2013. Archived from the original on 1 May 2013. Retrieved 20 January 2016.
  53. ↑ Shyam Prasad S (6 October 2017). "Puneeth will get families together". Bangalore Mirror. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  54. ↑ "ನೇತ್ರಾವತಿ ಧಾರಾವಾಹಿ ನಿರ್ಮಾಣಕ್ಕೆ ಮುಂದಾದ ಪುನೀತ್ ರಾಜ್ ಕುಮಾರ್" (in ಕನ್ನಡ). Prajavani. 2 March 2021. Retrieved 15 May 2021.
  55. ↑ "New soap opera Netharavathi goes on air from Monday". timesofindia.indiatimes.com. 10 March 2021. Retrieved 15 May 2021.
  56. ↑ Kumar, B. s Satish (24 November 2015). "Puneeth and Ramya are brand ambassadors of LED project". The Hindu – via www.thehindu.com.
  57. ↑ "Puneeth Rajkumar launches Malabar Gold collection". Mangalore Today. Retrieved 29 October 2021.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link)
  58. ↑ "Gold Winner Vita D3+ Adds Star Power Signs up Puneeth Rajkumar as Brand Ambassador". businesswireindia.com. 21 July 2017. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  59. ↑ Urs, Anil (20 January 2018). "Ziox Mobiles ropes in Puneeth Rajkumar as brand ambassador". thehindubusinessline.com. Retrieved 31 October 2021.
  60. ↑ "MANAPPURAM FINANCE – Gold Loan | Loan against Gold Ornaments | Loan against Gold Jewellery | Jewel Loan". Manappuram.com. 31 March 2010. Archived from the original on 26 September 2010. Retrieved 26 August 2010.
  61. ↑ "Puneet Raj Kumar is new Royal Challengers ambassador". Hindustan Times. 13 March 2010. Retrieved 7 January 2021.
  62. ↑ "IPL takes a glam beating". ibnlive.in.com. 23 May 2012. Retrieved 29 September 2014.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  63. ↑ "Puneeth's PRK Audio enters the music market with the film; to be out on Nov 24". Bangalore Mirror. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  64. ↑ "Puneeth Rajkumar passes away at 46". The Indian Express. 29 October 2021.
  65. ↑ "Like father, like son: Puneeth Rajkumar donates eyes". Deccan Herald. 30 October 2021. Retrieved 30 October 2021.
  66. ↑ 66.0 66.1 ""Final Salute": Actor Puneeth Rajkumar Paid Last Respects In Karnataka". NDTV.com. 31 October 2021.
  67. ↑ "Family, fans bid Puneeth Rajkumar tearful farewell". Deccan Herald. 31 October 2021. Retrieved 31 October 2021.

External links

Retrieved from "https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Puneeth_Rajkumar&oldid=225045"
Discover more