Puneeth Rajkumar’s last rites to be held on Sunday at Dodda Gajanaru or Kanteerava Studio

Kannada cinema’s Power Star Puneeth Rajkumar passed away on Friday (October 29) following a massive heart attack. The actor’s funeral is expected to be held on Sunday, either at the Kanteerava Studio, where his father, the late Dr Rajkumar, and mother Parvathamma have their samadhis or in Dodda Gajanuru, which is Dr Rajkumar’s birth place. The family is yet to decide on the finer details. The exact timing of the final rites has not been finalized as the family is expecting the return of Puneeth’s daughter Dhrithi, who has been pursuing her academics in the US. Also, the family is looking at ensuring that all fans of the actor are given an opportunity to pay their last respects, for which the mortal remains have been shifted to Kanteerava Stadium. Fans will be allowed to pay their respects tomorrow, Saturday (October 30) as well – a decision taken by the family to ensure that everyone gets to see Puneeth one last time.

Karnataka state Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has said that Puneeth’s last rites would be conducted with state honours.

On Friday morning, Puneeth had been rushed to hospital after complaining of chest pain during a workout session. However, by the time they got him to Vikram hospital, the actor was unresponsive and in total cardiac arrest at 11.30 am. Despite that, doctors attempted to revive him, with cardiac massage and other suitable treatment options, given the alreadt feeble condition of his heart. By 2.30 pm, hospital authorities formally announced his passing. 

As a mark of respect for the late actor, theatres across the state will remain closed for two days. The government is ensuring that all arrangements are in place to avoid incidents that occurred during the passing of Dr Rajkumar, when seven people were shot dead in ensuing violence.