Powerstar Puneeth Rajkumar to be honoured with ‘Karnataka Ratna’, the highest civilian award of the Government of Karnataka posthumously, in front of Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on November 1.
Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai told media that the decision was taken at a meeting with the ministers, senior officials and family members of Puneeth. So far, only eight persons have been honoured with this award, but it had not been given to anybody since 2009.
The CM said this award is given in recognition of the contribution of Puneeth Rajkumar to Kannada film field, Kannada language and culture. “Puneeth Rajkumar is a real Karnataka Ratna as he has remained in the hearts of people permanently through his achievements during his life. He must always be the source of inspiration for youths and for this purpose this award will be given to him posthumously,” Bommai said.
The function will be attended by noted litterateurs, film personalities, MLAs’ and achievers.
Rajkumar passed away in October last year after suffering cardiac arrest at the age of 46. Apart from his movie roles, he was popular among the people for his philanthropic activities. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
Earlier this year, Puneeth Rajkumar was posthumously conferred with an honorary doctorate by the University of Mysore.