BENGALURU
Veteran Kannada actor MS Umesh (80), known for his prolific career and memorable comic roles, passed away on Sunday after battling a prolonged illness. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar visited Ravindra Kalakshetra to pay their last respects as the film fraternity and fans mourned the loss of one of Kannada cinema’s beloved artistes.
Earlier, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah took to social media to express his grief, calling Umesh’s death “painful.” He remembered the veteran actor as someone who devoted decades to Kannada cinema, winning hearts through natural and effortless performances. “A heartfelt farewell to the veteran actor who made audiences laugh for years. I pray that his soul rests in peace,” he wrote.
Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar also condoled the demise, describing the news as “heartbreaking.” He highlighted Umesh’s vast body of work — over 350 films — and his significant contributions to the industry. Films such as Nagara Hole, Guru Shishyaru, Anupama, Kamanabillu, Apoorva Sangama, Shruti Seridaga, Haalu Sakhre, and Golmaal Radhakrishna remain audience favourites. “May his soul rest in peace, and may God give strength to his family,” he posted on X.
Minister for Kannada and Culture Shivaraj Thangadgi also expressed deep sorrow, recalling Umesh as one of Kannada cinema’s most gifted actors. Beginning as a child artiste in Makkal Rajya, Umesh went on to appear in over 400 films, acting alongside legends like Dr Rajkumar, Vishnuvardhan, Ambareesh, and Anant Nag. Thangadgi noted that his performances remain unforgettable and lamented that cancer claimed the life of such a remarkable artiste.
The Kannada film industry has lost a versatile and cherished performer, and tributes continue to pour in as fans remember his legacy.