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Sampath Kumar (18 September 1950 – 30 December 2009), known by his stage name Vishnuvardhan, was an Indian actor predominantly in
Kannada cinema Kannada cinema, also known as Sandalwood, or Chandanavana, is the segment of Indian cinema dedicated to the production of motion pictures in the Kannada language widely spoken in the state of Karnataka. The 1934 film ''Sati Sulochana'' direct ...
. He is regarded as one of the popular cultural icon of
Karnataka Karnataka (; ISO: , , also known as Karunāḍu) is a state in the southwestern region of India. It was formed on 1 November 1956, with the passage of the States Reorganisation Act. Originally known as Mysore State , it was renamed ''Kar ...
. Vishnuvardhan is often referred to as ''Sahasa Simha'' and ''The Angry Young Man of Kannada Cinema.'' He appeared in more than 220 films all together in
Kannada Kannada (; ಕನ್ನಡ, ), originally romanised Canarese, is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly by the people of Karnataka in southwestern India, with minorities in all neighbouring states. It has around 47 million native s ...
,
Hindi Hindi (Devanāgarī: or , ), or more precisely Modern Standard Hindi (Devanagari: ), is an Indo-Aryan languages, Indo-Aryan language spoken chiefly in the Hindi Belt region encompassing parts of North India, northern, Central India, centr ...
,
Malayalam Malayalam (; , ) is a Dravidian language spoken in the Indian state of Kerala and the union territories of Lakshadweep and Puducherry ( Mahé district) by the Malayali people. It is one of 22 scheduled languages of India. Malayalam wa ...
,
Tamil Tamil may refer to: * Tamils, an ethnic group native to India and some other parts of Asia ** Sri Lankan Tamils, Tamil people native to Sri Lanka also called ilankai tamils **Tamil Malaysians, Tamil people native to Malaysia * Tamil language, nati ...
and
Telugu Telugu may refer to: * Telugu language, a major Dravidian language of India *Telugu people, an ethno-linguistic group of India * Telugu script, used to write the Telugu language ** Telugu (Unicode block), a block of Telugu characters in Unicode S ...
. He was called ''The Phoenix of Indian Cinema.''sandalwood: Vishnuvardhan comes alive as a comic character , Kannada Movie News – Times of India
M.timesofindia.com (26 December 2013). Retrieved on 2018-11-08.
A final tribute to the Phoenix of Indian Cinema: ‘Nagarahavu’ – Movie Mint
Moviemint.com (31 May 2016). Retrieved on 2018-11-08.

Our-karnataka.blogspot.in (25 February 2012). Retrieved on 2018-11-08.
He made his debut in the 1972 National Award winning film, ''
Vamsha Vriksha Vamsha Vriksha (The genealogy tree), is a 1971 Indian Kannada-language film directed by B. V. Karanth and Girish Karnad, based on S. L. Bhyrappa's novel of the same name. The film won the National Film Award for Best Direction.Shampa Banerjee ...
'', in a supporting role. The same year he played the lead role in
Puttanna Kanagal Shubraveshti Ramaswamiah Seetharama Sharma (1 December 1933 – 5 June 1985), known popularly as S. R. Puttanna Kanagal, was an Indian filmmaker known for his work in Kannada cinema. He is often considered one of Kannada cinema's most influent ...
's ''
Naagarahaavu ''Naagarahaavu'' () is a 1972 Indian Kannada-language film directed by Puttanna Kanagal, based on T. R. Subba Rao's three novels ''Nagarahavu'', ''Ondu Gandu Eradu Hennu'' and ''Sarpa Mathsara'', and starring Vishnuvardhan, Aarathi , K. S. As ...
'' which was his breakthrough and he had won Filmfare Special Jury Award (
Filmfare Special Award – South The Filmfare Special Jury Award is given by the '' Filmfare Magazine'' as part of its annual Filmfare Awards South for South Indian films. It was decided on 17th Annual Filmfare Awards and started from 20th Annual Filmfare Awards held in 1973. I ...
). He won
Karnataka State Film Awards Karnataka State Film Awards are the most notable and prestigious film awards given for Kannada film industry in Karnataka, India. These are considered the highest awards for Kannada language films. They are given annually by the Government ...
&
Filmfare Awards South Filmfare Awards South is the South Indian segment of the annual Filmfare Awards, presented by the Filmfare magazine of The Times Group to honour both artistic and technical excellence of professionals in the Indian film industry encompassin ...
for best performance. In 2008, a poll conducted by CNN-IBN listed Vishnuvardhan as the most popular star in the Kannada film industry. A road stretching from Banashankari Temple to
Kengeri Kengeri is a suburb in Bangalore city. It is located on the western corridor along Mysore Road, bordered by Nagarbhavi to the north and Rajarajeshwari Nagar to the east. History The name Kengeri comes from the Kannada words Tengu coconut an ...
in
Bangalore Bangalore (), officially Bengaluru (), is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of more than and a metropolitan population of around , making it the third most populous city and fifth most ...
was named after him. It is the longest road in India to be named after an actor. In an interview with '' The Hindu'', he had said that it was the era of
Bruce Lee Bruce Lee (; born Lee Jun-fan, ; November 27, 1940 – July 20, 1973) was a Hong Kong and American martial artist and actor. He was the founder of Jeet Kune Do, a hybrid martial arts philosophy drawing from different combat disciplines th ...
and it was only
Kamal Haasan Kamal Haasan (born 7 November 1954) is an Indian actor, filmmaker, screenwriter, playback singer, television presenter and politician who works mainly in Tamil cinema and has also appeared in some Telugu, Malayalam, Hindi, Kannada and Bengali f ...
and himself who had learnt martial arts in his generation. He was also the story writer of the 1997 movie ''
Ganesha I Love You Ganesha I Love You is a 1997 Kannada film directed by Phani Ramachandra where he uses his favorite screen-title ''Ganesha''. Ananth Nag reprised the titular character. The movie was based on a story by actor Vishnuvardhan with core plot eleme ...
'' directed by
Phani Ramachandra H. S. Phani Ramachandra is a Kannada film and television director. He is known for directing such classic Kannada comedy films as '' Ganeshana Maduve'' and '' Gauri Ganesha'' and the TV serial ''Danda Pindagalu''. His films mainly portray middle ...
.


Early life

Vishnuvardhan was born in
Mysore Mysore (), officially Mysuru (), is a city in the southern part of the state of Karnataka, India. Mysore city is geographically located between 12° 18′ 26″ north latitude and 76° 38′ 59″ east longitude. It is located at an altitude of ...
to H. L. Narayana Rao and Kamakshamma. His father was an artist, music composer and a screenwriter who was known for his collection of musical instruments and had written the story, screenplay, dialogues and lyrics for the 1962 Kannada movie ''
Vidhivilasa ''Vidhivilasa'' is a 1962 Kannada language swashbuckler film directed by S. V. Mahesh. The film stars Rajkumar, Leelavathi and K. S. Ashwath. The film is based on the story of a King who confronts destiny (fate), which appears to him in the ...
''. He had six siblings. His sister Rama was a
Kathak Kathak ( hi, कथक; ur, کتھک) is one of the eight major forms of Classical Indian dance, Indian classical dance. It is the classical dance from of Uttar Pradesh. The origin of Kathak is traditionally attributed to the traveling bards ...
dancer at the Mysore Palace, and brother Ravi was a
child actor The term child actor or child actress is generally applied to a child acting on stage or in movies or television. An adult who began their acting career as a child may also be called a child actor, or a "former child actor". Closely associated t ...
who appeared in the 1955
Tamil language Tamil (; ' , ) is a Dravidian language natively spoken by the Tamil people of South Asia. Tamil is an official language of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the sovereign nations of Sri Lanka and Singapore, and the Indian territory of Pud ...
- Kannada bilingual film '' Modala Thedi''. Vishnuvardhan was educated first in Mysore's Gopalswamy School and then at
Bangalore Bangalore (), officially Bengaluru (), is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of more than and a metropolitan population of around , making it the third most populous city and fifth most ...
's Kannada Model High School. He attended high school and obtained a degree from National College,
Basavanagudi Basavanagudi is a residential and commercial locality in the Indian city of Bangalore. It is located in South Bangalore, along the borders of Jayanagar. The name "Basavanagudi" refers to the Bull Temple, which contains a monolith statue of the N ...
, Bangalore. Vishnuvardhan married actress Bharathi on 17 February 1975 in
Bangalore Bangalore (), officially Bengaluru (), is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of more than and a metropolitan population of around , making it the third most populous city and fifth most ...
. They have two daughters, Keerthi and Chandana. Actor
Aniruddha Jatkar Aniruddha Jatkar (also known as Anirudh) is an Indian actor, singer, writer and director, social activist and businessman. Born on 16 February 1974, he is the son-in-law of the Kannada film actors Vishnuvardhana and Bharathi Vishnuvardhan. Know ...
is his son in law.


Career


Early career and debut (1972 - 1980)

In his 37-year career, he played a variety of roles in more than 200 films. Vishnuvardhan started his career with the National Award-winning movie ''
Vamshavruksha Vamsha Vriksha (The genealogy tree), is a 1971 Indian Kannada-language film directed by B. V. Karanth and Girish Karnad, based on S. L. Bhyrappa's novel of the same name. The film won the National Film Award for Best Direction.Shampa Banerjee, A ...
'' (1972) directed by
Girish Karnad Girish Karnad (19 May 1938 – 10 June 2019) was an Indian actor, film director, Kannada writer, playwright and a Jnanpith awardee, who predominantly worked in South Indian cinema and Bollywood. His rise as a playwright in the 1960s marked the ...
based on the novel by
S. L. Bhyrappa Santeshivara Lingannaiah Bhyrappa (born 20 June 1931) is an Indian novelist, philosopher and screenwriter who writes in Kannada. His work is popular in the state of Karnataka and he is widely regarded as one of modern India's popular novelists. ...
. His first lead role was in ''
Naagarahaavu ''Naagarahaavu'' () is a 1972 Indian Kannada-language film directed by Puttanna Kanagal, based on T. R. Subba Rao's three novels ''Nagarahavu'', ''Ondu Gandu Eradu Hennu'' and ''Sarpa Mathsara'', and starring Vishnuvardhan, Aarathi , K. S. As ...
'', directed by
Puttanna Kanagal Shubraveshti Ramaswamiah Seetharama Sharma (1 December 1933 – 5 June 1985), known popularly as S. R. Puttanna Kanagal, was an Indian filmmaker known for his work in Kannada cinema. He is often considered one of Kannada cinema's most influent ...
and based on a trilogy by
T. R. Subba Rao Talukina Ramaswamayya Subba Rao (1920–1984), popularly known as TaRaSu, was an Indian novelist and a scholar in the Kannada-language.Mohan Lal and Others (1992), p4185 He is considered as a harbinger of the Navya movement of Kannada literature ...
. Next he appeared along with Rajkumar in ''
Gandhada Gudi ''Gandhada Gudi'' () is a 1973 Indian Kannada-language action drama film directed by Vijay and produced by M. P. Shankar. Rajkumar in his 150th film portrays an honest forest officer Kumar while Vishnuvardhan plays the antagonist, Anand, t ...
''. Released in 1973, it was the highest-grossing Kannada movie of the year. In 1974 he appeared in ''
Bhootayyana Maga Ayyu ''Bhootayyana Maga Ayyu'' () is 1974 Indian Kannada-language drama film directed by Siddalingaiah, who co-wrote the screenplay with Gorur Ramaswamy Iyengar, based on Iyengar's short story of the same name from his novel, ''Vayyari.'' The film s ...
'' which also went on to break box-office records. In 1977, he appeared in many Kannada movies of which three were with
Rajinikanth Shivaji Rao Gaikwad (born 12 December 1950), known professionally as Rajinikanth, is an Indian actor, producer and screenwriter. In a career spanning over five decades, he has done 160 films that includes films in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Kannad ...
who was then a budding star - ''
Sahodarara Savaal ''Sahodarara Savaal'' () is a 1977 Indian Kannada-language film directed by K. S. R. Das. It stars Vishnuvardhan and Rajinikanth. It was one of the few films that Rajinikanth acted in Kannada. The film was remade in Telugu as '' Annadammula Sav ...
,
Kiladi Kittu ''Kiladi Kittu'' is a 1978 Indian Kannada-language film directed by K.S.R. Das. The film starred Vishnuvardhan and Rajinikanth. The music for the film was composed by Mohan Kumar. The director remade the movie in Telugu in 1981 as ''Black Cobr ...
'' and ''
Galate Samsara ''Galate Samsara'' () is a 1977 Indian Kannada language comedy film directed by C. V. Rajendran and produced by C. Jayaram. It stars Dr.Vishnuvardhan, Rajinikanth and Manjula in the lead roles. It also stars Dwarakish, Dr. K S Ashwath, Bal ...
''. In 1978, Vishnuvardhan appeared in the hit romantic drama ''
Hombisilu ''Hombisilu'' is a 1978 Indian Kannada-language romantic drama film directed by Geethapriya. It is based on the novel of the same name by Usha Navarathnaram. The film starred Vishnuvardhan, Aarathi and Leelavathi. Vishnuvardhan was awarded wit ...
'' and his role of a doctor fetched him his first
Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor is a state film award of the Indian state of Karnataka given during the annual Karnataka State Film Awards. The award honours Kannada Language films. Superlatives Recipients The first recipient was ...
. He also acted in ''
Kiladi Jodi ''Kiladi Jodi'' ( kn, ಕಿಲಾಡಿ ಜೋಡಿ) is 1978 Indian Kannada language film directed by S. V. Rajendra Singh Babu starring Lakshmi in a double role opposite Vishnuvardhan and Srinath. Cast * Vishnuvardhan * Srinath N ...
'' with
Srinath Narayana Swamy (born 28 December 1944), known by his stage name Srinath, is an Indian actor and film producer who works predominantly in Kannada cinema. He holds the position of vice-president of the Kannada television channel Udaya TV. He is ...
and
Lakshmi Lakshmi (; , sometimes spelled Laxmi, ), also known as Shri (, ), is one of the principal goddesses in Hinduism. She is the goddess of wealth, fortune, power, beauty, fertility and prosperity, and associated with ''Maya'' ("Illusion"). Alo ...
. During the 70s Vishnuvardhan formed a successful pair with not only his actress wife Bharathi, but also the two top actresses of the decade -
Aarathi Aarathi (born 1954) is an Indian actress who mainly acted in Kannada films during the 1970s and 1980s. She has won the Filmfare awards South and the Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actress four times each. After her retirement from films ...
and
Manjula Manjula (Sanskrit: मंजुला) is a Hindu and Sanskrit female given name, which means, "melodious". Notable people named Manjula * Manjula (Kannada actress) (1954–1986), Indian actress * Manjula Chellur (born 1955), Indian doctor a ...
.


Later career and success (1981 - 1999)

In 1982, the Joe Simon directed ''
Sahasa Simha ''Sahasa Simha'' () is a 1982 Indian Kannada-language action crime thriller film directed by Joe Simon and produced by M. Pandurangan and M. Ramalingam. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, Kajal Kiran, Rajya Lakshmi and Vajramuni. The film has musi ...
'' became a blockbuster and bestowed the title of Sahasa Simha on him. In 1984 he debuted in Bollywood with ''Ek Naya Itihas'' opposite
Hema Malini Hema Malini (born 16 October 1948) is an Indian actress, director, producer, and politician. She is primarily known for her work in Hindi films. Known for starring in both comic and dramatic roles, she is one of the most popular and successful ...
. In the same year, ''
Bandhana ''Bandhana'' is a 1984 Indian Kannada-language romantic drama film directed by Rajendra Singh Babu from a screenplay by H. V. Subba Rao and Rajendra Singh Babu, based on a novel of the same name by Usha Navaratnanram. The film revolves around ...
'', where he appeared with
Suhasini Maniratnam Suhasini Maniratnam (born 15 August 1961) known mononymously as Suhasini, is an Indian actress, director, producer and writer in the Tamil film industry. She has worked as an actress in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada films. She made her ...
had him play a doctor again but as a dejected lover. The film was not only a blockbuster but also fetched him his second Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor and became another turning point in his career. In 1985, he appeared with
Rajinikanth Shivaji Rao Gaikwad (born 12 December 1950), known professionally as Rajinikanth, is an Indian actor, producer and screenwriter. In a career spanning over five decades, he has done 160 films that includes films in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Kannad ...
in the Tamil film ''
Sri Raghavendrar ''Sri Raghavendrar'' is a 1985 Tamil-language Hindu mythological film directed by S. P. Muthuraman and was produced by Kavithalayaa Productions. The film stars Rajinikanth, portraying the title character, in his 100th film. Lakshmi, Vishnuva ...
'' and the next year in the multi-starrer '' Viduthalai'' co-starring
Sivaji Ganesan Villupuram Chinnaiya Manrayar Ganesamoorthy, better known by his stage name Sivaji Ganesan, (1 October 1928 – 21 July 2001) was an Indian actor and producer. He was active in Tamil cinema during the latter half of the 20th century. Sivaji Gan ...
as well. A number of his films in the 1980s like ''
Onde Guri ''Onde Guri'' is a 1983 Indian Kannada-language film, directed by H. R. Bhargava and produced by M. P. Shankar. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, M. P. Shankar, Ramakrishna and Madhavi. The film has musical score by Rajan–Nagendra. The film i ...
'', ''
Nee Bareda Kadambari ''Nee Bareda Kadambari'' () is a 1985 Indian Kannada-language film directed and produced by Dwarakish in his directorial debut. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, Bhavya, Hema Chaudhary and C. R. Simha. The music was composed by Vijay Anand and t ...
'', ''
Jeevana Chakra ''Jeevana Chakra'' () is a 1985 Kannada-language film starring Vishnuvardhan, Raadhika and Ramesh Bhat, and directed by H. R. Bhargava. The film was a remake of the 1983 Telugu film '' Dharmaatmudu''. Cast * Vishnuvardhan as Ranganath * ...
'', '' Khaidi'', '' Suprabhaata'', ''
Deva Deva may refer to: Entertainment * ''Deva'' (1989 film), a 1989 Kannada film * ''Deva'' (1995 film), a 1995 Tamil film * ''Deva'' (2002 film), a 2002 Bengali film * Deva (2007 Telugu film) * ''Deva'' (2017 film), a 2017 Marathi film * Deva ( ...
'' and ''
Hrudaya Geethe ''Hrudaya Geethe'' () is a 1989 Indian Kannada-language romance film directed and produced by H. R. Bhargava. The story by Phani Ramachandra was loosely based on the 1970 movie ''Pagla Kahin Ka''. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, Bhavya and Khu ...
'' were successful at the box-office. ''
Malaya Marutha ''Malaya Marutha'' ( Winds from the hills) is a 1986 Kannada-language musical film starring Vishnuvardhan, Saritha and Madhavi. The film was directed and written by K. S. L. Swamy (Lalitha Ravi) and produced by C. V. L Shastry under "Shastry ...
'' in which he played a classical singer got him a lot of critical acclaim. In 1990, ''
Muthina Haara ''Muttina Haara'' () is a 1990 Indian Kannada-language war-drama film directed by Rajendra Singh Babu. It stars Vishnuvardhan and Suhasini Maniratnam in the lead roles. K. S. Ashwath, Kavya and Ramkumar feature in supporting roles. The film spea ...
'' - the National award winning film ( 38th National Film Awards ) directed by S.V. Rajendra Singh Babu (who had earlier given him the blockbuster ''
Bandhana ''Bandhana'' is a 1984 Indian Kannada-language romantic drama film directed by Rajendra Singh Babu from a screenplay by H. V. Subba Rao and Rajendra Singh Babu, based on a novel of the same name by Usha Navaratnanram. The film revolves around ...
'') got him rave reviews but was an average grosser at the box office, while ''Mathe Haaditu Kogile'' where he costarred with
Anant Nag Dr Anant Nagarkatte (born 4 September 1948) is an Indian actor whose predominant contribution has been in Kannada cinema. He has acted in over 300 films which include over 200 Kannada films as well as Hindi, Telugu, Marathi, Malayalam and En ...
for the first time became a super hit. In 1991,he appeared in a double role in ''
Lion Jagapathi Rao ''Lion Jagapathi Rao'' is a 1991 Indian Kannada-language drama film, directed by Om Sai Prakash and written by Sainath Thotapalli, starring Vishnuvardhan in dual roles, along with Lakshmi and Bhavya. The film was produced by Sri Vinayaka Combi ...
'' for which he received yet his third Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor. In 1992 he appeared in the National award winning film
Harakeya Kuri ''Harakeya Kuri'' is a 1992 Indian Kannada political drama film directed and produced by K. S. L. Swamy (Lalitha Ravee). Starring Vishnuvardhan, Prakash Rai and Geetha in lead roles, the film was based on the novel of the same name by Chandra ...
directed by
K. S. L. Swamy Kikkeri Shamanna Lakshminarasimha Swamy (21 February 1939 – 20 October 2015), popularly known as K. S. L. Swamy / Lalitha Ravee / Ravee, was an Indian film director, producer, actor and playback singer. He entered cinema at an early age as an ...
He made his debut in Malayalam cinema in 1981 with
Adima Changala ''Adima Changala'' is a 1981 Indian Malayalam-language action-adventure film, directed by A. B. Raj and produced by R. S. Sreenivasan. The film stars Prem Nazir, Sheela, Swapna and Vishnuvardhan in the lead roles. The film has musical score b ...
, Again in 1992 appeared in a Malayalam movie ''
Kauravar ''Kauravar'' is a 1992 Indian Malayalam-language gangster action thriller film, directed by Joshiy, written by Lohithadas, starring Mammootty, Vishnuvardhan, Thilakan, Murali, Anju, Babu Antony and Bheeman Raghu. The film was remade ...
,'' starring
Mammootty Muhammad Kutty Panaparambil Ismail (; born 7 September 1951), known mononymously by the hypocorism Mammootty (), is an Indian actor and film producer who works predominantly in Malayalam films. He has also appeared in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada ...
in the lead role. The film was a commercial success and his performance in the film was critically acclaimed. '' Halunda Tavaru'' which released in 1994 was a blockbuster. In 1994, he once again forayed into Hindi cinema appearing in the Hindi-Kannada bilingual ''
Vishnu Vijaya ''Vishnu Vijaya'' (or ''Ashaant'') is a 1993 bilingual Indian film directed by Keshu Ramsay and released simultaneously in Hindi and Kannada. The film stars Vishnuvardhan (actor), Vishnuvardhan, Akshay Kumar, Ashwini Bhave, Ashutosh Rana and Pan ...
'' (titled ''Ashaant'' in Hindi) and ''
Zaalim ''Zaalim'' () is a 1994 Indian crime drama film directed by Sikander Bharti and produced by G.P. Sippy. It stars Akshay Kumar, Madhoo, Vishnuvardhan, Ranjeet, and Alok Nath. Plot Judge Somnath lives with his wife, three sons, and a daughter. ...
'' along with then rising star
Akshay Kumar Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia (born 9 September 1967), known professionally as Akshay Kumar (), is an Indian-born naturalised Canadian Quote: "(Former prime minister Stephen) Harper campaigned in 2011 alongside one of Modi's biggest celebrity backer ...
. Other significant movies in the late 1990s include ''
Surya Vamsha ''Suryavamsha'' is a 1999 Indian Kannada-language drama film directed by S. Narayan and written by Vikraman. The film stars Vishnuvardhan in dual role along with Isha Koppikar and Lakshmi. The film's score and soundtrack are composed by V. Ma ...
'', ''
Habba ''Habba'' () is a 1999 Indian Kannada-language drama film written and directed by D. Rajendra Babu. The film has an ensemble cast including Vishnuvardhan, Ambareesh, Devaraj, Jayapradha, Urvashi, Shashikumar, Ramkumar, Vijayalakshmi, Kas ...
'' and ''
Laali ''Laali'' ( kn, ಲಾಲಿ) is a 1997 Indian Kannada-language drama film directed, written and scripted by Dinesh Babu, starring Vishnuvardhan, Mohini and Shanthi Krishna in the lead roles. The film was produced by Rockline Venkatesh under ...
''. During this time, while he acted with almost all the notable actresses of the South industry, he formed the most successful pair with Madhavi,
Bhavya Bhavya is an Indian actress. She has acted in several Kannada and a few Tamil and Telugu movies. She was a top heroine of Kannada cinema during 1985–1992. She switched over to key supporting roles post 2000. She is settled in Mumbai, India ...
,
Suhasini Suhasini Maniratnam (born 15 August 1961) known mononymously as Suhasini, is an Indian actress, director, producer and writer in the Tamil film industry. She has worked as an actress in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada films. She made her ...
,
Rupini Komal Mahuvakar, better known by her stage name Rupini, is an Indian actress who has appeared in Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Telugu language films during the late 1980s and early 1990s. She started as a child artist in the Hindi fil ...
and Sithara.


In 2000s (2000 - 2010)

In 2000 ''
Yajamana In the Hindu tradition, a ''yajamana'' is the ritual patron, on whose behalf a religious ritual or a ''yajna'' is performed by a priest, generally a Brahmin.Society and Religion: From Rugveda to Puranas, Jayant Gadkari, Popular Prakashan, 1996 p. ...
'' was a huge box office success and became the all-time highest grossing Kannada movie. His other big hit that year was ''
Soorappa ''Soorappa'' is a 2000 Indian Kannada-language action drama film directed by Naganna and produced by Super Hit Films. The film stars Vishnuvardhan in his 175th film along with Charan Raj, Shruti and Anu Prabhakar in prominent roles. The film h ...
''. Over the next few years Vishnuvardhan continued to give more successful films like ''
Kotigobba ''Kotigobba'' () is a 2001 Indian Kannada-language action film starring Vishnuvardhan, Priyanka Upendra and Ashish Vidyarthi. The film was a remake of Rajinikanth's 1995 Tamil film ''Baashha''. This movie was directed by Naganna and features ...
'', ''
Simhadriya Simha ''Simhadriya Simha'' () is a 2002 Indian Kannada-language action drama film directed by S. Narayan. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, Meena and Bhanupriya. The music of the film was composed by Deva. The film was a remake of the 1994 Tamil fi ...
'', ''
Jamindaru ''Jamindarru'' is a 2002 Indian Kannada-language action drama film starring Vishnuvardhan in dual roles, Prema and Raasi. The film is directed and written by S. Narayan and produced by K. Manju under Lakshmishree Combines. The film, upon rel ...
'', ''
Diggajaru ''Diggajaru'' () is a 2001 Indian Kannada-language film directed by D. Rajendra Babu. The film stars Vishnuvardhan and Ambareesh. The music of the film was composed by Hamsalekha. It is a remake of the 1998 Tamil film '' Natpukkaga''. Plot ...
'', '' Kadamba'' and most importantly ''
Apthamitra ''Apthamitra'' () is a 2004 Indian Kannada-language horror film directed by P. Vasu, and stars Vishnuvardhan, Soundarya and Ramesh Arvind in the lead roles with Prema, Dwarakish and Avinash in supporting roles. This was Soundarya's last fi ...
'' which turned out to be the last film of
Soundarya K. S. Sowmya (18 July 1972 – 17 April 2004), better known by her stage name Soundarya, was an Indian actress who worked predominantly in Telugu films and has also worked in Kannada, Tamil, Hindi and Malayalam films. She was regarded as one ...
who costarred with him. In 2007, ''
Ee Bandhana ''Ee Bandhana'' is a 2007 Indian Kannada-language drama film written, directed and co-produced by Vijayalakshmi Singh. This marks her debut directorial project. It stars Vishnuvardhan and Jayapradha. While Darshan, Ananth Nag, Tara, Sharmie ...
'' costarring
Jaya Prada Jaya Prada Nahata (born Lalitha Rani; 3 April 1962) is an Indian actress and politician. She is hailed as one of the most iconic and influential actresses in both Telugu and Hindi film industries in late '70s, '80s and early '90s. Jayaprada i ...
directed by actress
Vijayalakshmi Singh Vijayalakshmi Singh is an Indian actress, director, costume designer and producer in Kannada. She has acted in more than 50 Kannada films and is actively involved in television projects. Early life Vijayalakshmi was born in Mysore to film pe ...
, and ''
Maathaad Maathaadu Mallige ''Maathaad Maathaadu Mallige'' (), is a 2007 Kannada-language film directed by Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar starring Vishnuvardhan. The film depicts the challenges faced by the people living in rural areas of India.http://www.rediff.com/movies/ ...
'' directed by
Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar Nagathihalli Chandrashekhar is an Indian director, actor, screenwriter and a lyricist who predominantly works in Kannada Cinema. He made his film debut as a screenplay writer in ''Kadina Benki'' (1986) which won the National Film Award for Best ...
co-starring Sudeepa(actor),got him a lot of acclaim for portraying him in age appropriate roles. He appeared in '' Neenello Naanalle'' with his son-in-law
Aniruddha Jatkar Aniruddha Jatkar (also known as Anirudh) is an Indian actor, singer, writer and director, social activist and businessman. Born on 16 February 1974, he is the son-in-law of the Kannada film actors Vishnuvardhana and Bharathi Vishnuvardhan. Know ...
and popular actress
Rakshita Shweta, known by her stage name Rakshita, is an Indian television personality, film producer and former actress known for her work in Kannada cinema. Early life Rakshita was brought up in Bangalore. Her father B. C. Gowrishankar was a cinema ...
. In 2009 ''
Bellary Naga ''Bellary Naga'' is a 2009 Indian Kannada-language romantic action film starring Vishnuvardhan, Manasi and Avinash. The film is directed by Dinesh Babu and based on the Malayalam language film '' Rajamanikyam'' (2005) starring Mammootty This w ...
'' was his last movie to release before his death. ''
Aptharakshaka ''Aaptharakshaka'' ( en, italic=yes, Dearest Savior) is a 2010 Kannada horror film directed by P. Vasu and written by V. R. Bhaskar. The film stars Vishnuvardhan in his 200th Kannada film and posthumous film, along with an ensemble cast inclu ...
'' (2010) which released posthumously became a huge blockbuster.


Television career

He appeared on television for the first time in the 1980s.
Shankar Nag Shankar Nagarakatte (9 November 1954 – 30 September 1990) was an Indian actor, screenwriter, director, and producer known for his work in Kannada-language films and television. A popular cultural icon of Karnataka, Nag is often referred to as ...
directed ''
Malgudi Days ''Malgudi Days'' is a collection of short stories by R. K. Narayan published in 1943 by Indian Thought Publications. The book was republished outside India in 1982 by Penguin Classics. The book includes 32 stories, all set in the fictional town ...
'' and introduced Vishnuvardhan as the main character Venkat Rao, in an episode called ''Rupees Forty-five a Month''. Here, his co-star was Gayatri Nag.


Philanthropy

Vishnuvardhan started an organisation called Sneha Loka to promote harmony and to help during calamities like floods. He conducted a ''padayatra'' to collect funds for the flood-affected people in the northern part of the state. Vishnuvardhan and his wife Bharathi had adopted the Melukote town in Mandya district where he had dug borewells in the water-starved temple town. Many of his other charitable donations were revealed only when the beneficiaries came forward and spoke about it. In January 2005, Vishnuvardhan, cricketer
Syed Kirmani Syed Mujtaba Hussain Kirmani (; born 29 December 1949) is an Indian cricketer who played cricket for India and Karnataka as a wicket-keeper. In 2016, he was awarded the Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award for Cricket in India. Internation ...
and Shivram participated in a Cancer Awareness Walkathon organised by Bangalore Institute of Oncology (BIO) to commemorate its 15 years of public service in Bangalore.


Frequent collaboration

;
S. P. Balasubrahmanyam Sripathi Panditaradhyula Balasubrahmanyam (4 June 1946 – 25 September 2020), also referred to as SPB or SP Balu or Balu, was an Indian playback singer, television presenter, actor, music composer, dubbing artist, and film producer. He is wid ...
SPB started singing for Vishnuvardhan in the 1972 film ''
Naagarahaavu ''Naagarahaavu'' () is a 1972 Indian Kannada-language film directed by Puttanna Kanagal, based on T. R. Subba Rao's three novels ''Nagarahavu'', ''Ondu Gandu Eradu Hennu'' and ''Sarpa Mathsara'', and starring Vishnuvardhan, Aarathi , K. S. As ...
''. Balasubrahmanyam as music director, composed all the songs for Vishnuvardhan's ''Sowbhagyalakshmi''. Balasubrahmanyam has sung all the five songs in his last Kannada film ''
Aptharakshaka ''Aaptharakshaka'' ( en, italic=yes, Dearest Savior) is a 2010 Kannada horror film directed by P. Vasu and written by V. R. Bhaskar. The film stars Vishnuvardhan in his 200th Kannada film and posthumous film, along with an ensemble cast inclu ...
'' and was awarded the Best Playback Singer Filmfare Award for the song ''Gharane Ghara Gharane''. He dedicated his award to Vishnuvardhan. After Vishnuvardhan's death, Balasubrahmanyam paid tribute to him in musical nights. ;
H. R. Bhargava Hunsur Ramachandra Bhagyachandra ( kn, ಹು. ರಾ. ಭಾರ್ಗವ), known mononymously as Bhargava, is an Indian film director who worked primarily in Kannada cinema. Originally a producer, he came to be considered one of the best dire ...
Vishnuvardhan's pairing with director
H.R. Bhargava Hunsur Ramachandra Bhagyachandra ( kn, ಹು. ರಾ. ಭಾರ್ಗವ), known mononymously as Bhargava, is an Indian film director who worked primarily in Kannada cinema. Originally a producer, he came to be considered one of the best direc ...
is considered one of the best pairings of Kannada film industry. His first film with
H.R. Bhargava Hunsur Ramachandra Bhagyachandra ( kn, ಹು. ರಾ. ಭಾರ್ಗವ), known mononymously as Bhargava, is an Indian film director who worked primarily in Kannada cinema. Originally a producer, he came to be considered one of the best direc ...
was Asaadhya Aliya which was successful. He has a total of 23 films with
H.R. Bhargava Hunsur Ramachandra Bhagyachandra ( kn, ಹು. ರಾ. ಭಾರ್ಗವ), known mononymously as Bhargava, is an Indian film director who worked primarily in Kannada cinema. Originally a producer, he came to be considered one of the best direc ...
. To name a few are ''Guru Sishyaru'', ''
Jeevana Chakra ''Jeevana Chakra'' () is a 1985 Kannada-language film starring Vishnuvardhan, Raadhika and Ramesh Bhat, and directed by H. R. Bhargava. The film was a remake of the 1983 Telugu film '' Dharmaatmudu''. Cast * Vishnuvardhan as Ranganath * ...
'', ''
Karunamayi Amma Sri Karunamayi (born 1958) is a Hindu spiritual leader. Sri Karunamayi travels internationally promoting global peace and meditation. Early life Amma Karunamayi was born in South India in 1958. Karunamayi's mother was a devotee of Ra ...
'', ''Jana Naayaka'', ''
Hrudaya Geethe ''Hrudaya Geethe'' () is a 1989 Indian Kannada-language romance film directed and produced by H. R. Bhargava. The story by Phani Ramachandra was loosely based on the 1970 movie ''Pagla Kahin Ka''. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, Bhavya and Khu ...
'', ''
Karna Karna (Sanskrit: कर्ण, IAST: ''Karṇa''), also known as Vasusena, Anga-raja, and Radheya, is one of the main protagonists of the Hindu epic '' Mahābhārata''. He is the son of the sun god Surya and princess Kunti (mother of the Pa ...
'', '' Mathe Haditu Kogile'', ''
Onde Guri ''Onde Guri'' is a 1983 Indian Kannada-language film, directed by H. R. Bhargava and produced by M. P. Shankar. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, M. P. Shankar, Ramakrishna and Madhavi. The film has musical score by Rajan–Nagendra. The film i ...
'', ''
Krishna Nee Begane Baaro Krishna Nee Begane Baro is a famous classical song in Kannada language. It is composed in Raga Yamunakalyani by Vyasatirtha. The Tala is ''Misra chapu''. Composer and Singer Vyasaraya Tirtha or Vyasatirtha (1460–1539) (also known as Vyasaraja ...
'', ''
Shiva Shankar Shiva Shankar Manandhar ( ne, शिव शंकर मानन्धर; 22 February 193214 November 2004) was a singer, music composer of Nepali songs and the chief actor in the first Nepali movie, '' Aama''. For nearly a half century beginn ...
'', ''
Bangarada Kalasa ''Bangarada Kalasha'' (Kannada: ಬಂಗಾರದ ಕಳಶ) is a 1995 Indian Kannada film, directed by H. R. Bhargava and produced by S. Shankar. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, Sithara, Anjana and Dheerendra Gopal in the lead roles. The fil ...
''. ;
Suhasini Suhasini Maniratnam (born 15 August 1961) known mononymously as Suhasini, is an Indian actress, director, producer and writer in the Tamil film industry. She has worked as an actress in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada films. She made her ...
Vishnuvardan's pair with actress
Suhasini Maniratnam Suhasini Maniratnam (born 15 August 1961) known mononymously as Suhasini, is an Indian actress, director, producer and writer in the Tamil film industry. She has worked as an actress in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada films. She made her ...
was one of the most lovable pairs in Karnataka. ;
Ramesh Bhat Ramesh Bhat is a multiple-award–winning Indian actor. He has worked predominantly in Kannada films and television serials. Early life Ramesh Bhat was born in Kundapur. He completed his primary education at Manki and portrayed national leader ...
Bhat has acted in more than 75 films with Vishnuvardhan. ;
Prema Prema may refer to: Films: * ''Prema'' (1952 film), a Telugu film * ''Prema'' (1989 film), a Telugu film starring Venkatesh and Revathi * ''Prema'' (2002 film), a 2002 Kannada film *''Tholi Prema (1998 film)'', a 1998 Telugu film starring Pawan Ka ...
In his later part of career, Vishnuvardan's pair with actress
Prema Prema may refer to: Films: * ''Prema'' (1952 film), a Telugu film * ''Prema'' (1989 film), a Telugu film starring Venkatesh and Revathi * ''Prema'' (2002 film), a 2002 Kannada film *''Tholi Prema (1998 film)'', a 1998 Telugu film starring Pawan Ka ...
was also successful. Their films include ''
Ellaranthalla Nanna Ganda ''Ellaranthalla Nanna Ganda'' () is a 1997 Indian Kannada film, directed by S. Umesh and produced by K. Prabhakar. The film stars Vishnuvardhan, Prema, Umashree and Tara in the lead roles. The film has musical score by Upendra Kumar. Plot ...
'',''
Yajamana In the Hindu tradition, a ''yajamana'' is the ritual patron, on whose behalf a religious ritual or a ''yajna'' is performed by a priest, generally a Brahmin.Society and Religion: From Rugveda to Puranas, Jayant Gadkari, Popular Prakashan, 1996 p. ...
'', ''
Apthamithra ''Apthamitra'' () is a 2004 Indian Kannada-language horror film directed by P. Vasu, and stars Vishnuvardhan, Soundarya and Ramesh Arvind in the lead roles with Prema, Dwarakish and Avinash in supporting roles. This was Soundarya's last fi ...
''


As singer

He started singing in movies occasionally and later went on to sing devotional songs for albums. The first song he sang was in the movie ''Nagarahole'' and he has recorded some duet songs with the notable legendary singers
S. Janaki Sistla Janaki (born 23 April 1938) is an Indian playback singer and occasional music composer from Andhra Pradesh. She is referred to respectfully as "Janaki Amma" and Nightingale of South India. She is one of the best-known playback singers in ...
,
Bangalore Latha B. R. Latha, popularly known as Bangalore Latha ( kn, ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಲತಾ), was an Indian singer who worked in south Indian film industry, mainly in Kannada and Telugu. Career Latha entered films through the 1962 Kannada languag ...
,
Vani Jairam Vani Jairam (born as Kalaivani on 30 November 1945), also credited as Vani Jayaram, is an Indian singer. She is best known as a playback singer in South Indian cinema. Vani's career started in 1971 and has spanned over five decades. She has do ...
and
P. Susheela Pulapaka Susheela (born 13 November 1935), popularly known as P. Susheela, is an Indian playback singer associated with the South Indian cinema primarily from Andhra Pradesh for over six decades. She is one of the greatest and best-known playba ...
. The first devotional album sung by him was on ''Lord Ayappa'' and the title of the album was ''Jyothiroopa Ayappa''. His other albums were "Thayi Bhanashankari" (on goddess Banashankari) and ''Vishwapremi Ayappa''. He also sang devotional songs on
Dharmastala Dharmasthala (earlier known as Kuduma) is an Indian temple town on the banks of the Nethravathi River in the Belthangady taluk of the Dakshina Kannada district in Karnataka, India. The town is known for its centuries old Dharmasthala Temp ...
's Lord Manjunathaswamy, Malemadeshwara and Ranachandi Chamundi. Some of his renderings are:


Later years and death

On 30 December 2009, Vishnuvardhan died of a massive cardiac arrest at King's Court Hotel in
Mysore Mysore (), officially Mysuru (), is a city in the southern part of the state of Karnataka, India. Mysore city is geographically located between 12° 18′ 26″ north latitude and 76° 38′ 59″ east longitude. It is located at an altitude of ...
. He was survived by his wife, Bharathi Vishnuvardhan, and their two adopted daughters, Keerthi and Chandana. He was cremated with full state honours at Abhiman studio in
Bangalore Bangalore (), officially Bengaluru (), is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of more than and a metropolitan population of around , making it the third most populous city and fifth most ...
.


Legacy, awards and honors


Filmfare Award South :

Best Actor - 4 Times : *''
Suprabhatha ''Suprabhatha'' is a 1988 Indian Kannada-language romantic drama film directed, written and filmed by Dinesh Babu, making his debut as a director. The film stars Vishnuvardhan and Suhasini in lead roles, along with Srividya, Maanu and Vijay K ...
'' ( 1988 ) *'' Haalunda Tavaru'' ( 1994 ) *''
Yajamana In the Hindu tradition, a ''yajamana'' is the ritual patron, on whose behalf a religious ritual or a ''yajna'' is performed by a priest, generally a Brahmin.Society and Religion: From Rugveda to Puranas, Jayant Gadkari, Popular Prakashan, 1996 p. ...
'' ( 2000 ) *''
Apthamitra ''Apthamitra'' () is a 2004 Indian Kannada-language horror film directed by P. Vasu, and stars Vishnuvardhan, Soundarya and Ramesh Arvind in the lead roles with Prema, Dwarakish and Avinash in supporting roles. This was Soundarya's last fi ...
'' ( 2004 )
Filmfare Special Award - South ''Filmfare'' is an Indian English-language fortnightly magazine published by Worldwide Media. Acknowledged as one of Indian most popular entertainment magazines, it publishes pieces involving news, interviews, photos, videos, reviews, events, an ...
- 2 times: *''
Naagarahaavu ''Naagarahaavu'' () is a 1972 Indian Kannada-language film directed by Puttanna Kanagal, based on T. R. Subba Rao's three novels ''Nagarahavu'', ''Ondu Gandu Eradu Hennu'' and ''Sarpa Mathsara'', and starring Vishnuvardhan, Aarathi , K. S. As ...
'' (1973) *
Bandhana ''Bandhana'' is a 1984 Indian Kannada-language romantic drama film directed by Rajendra Singh Babu from a screenplay by H. V. Subba Rao and Rajendra Singh Babu, based on a novel of the same name by Usha Navaratnanram. The film revolves around ...
(1984)
Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award - South ''Filmfare'' is an Indian English-language fortnightly magazine published by Worldwide Media. Acknowledged as one of Indian most popular entertainment magazines, it publishes pieces involving news, interviews, photos, videos, reviews, events, an ...
- 2002
Cinema Express Awards Cinema Express Awards are presented annually by Indian Express Group on behalf of Cinema Express film magazine to honour artistic excellence of professionals in the south Indian film industry which comprises Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam ...
: Cinema Express Award for the Best Actor
Suprabhatha ''Suprabhatha'' is a 1988 Indian Kannada-language romantic drama film directed, written and filmed by Dinesh Babu, making his debut as a director. The film stars Vishnuvardhan and Suhasini in lead roles, along with Srividya, Maanu and Vijay K ...
(1988)
Rayaru Bandaru Mavana Manege ''Rayaru Bandaru Mavana Manege'' is a 1993 Indian Kannada-language romantic drama film directed by Dwarakish and produced by P. Balaram. The film stars Vishnuvardhan along with Dolly Minhas and Bindiya. The music is scored by Raj–Koti and a ...
(1993)
Yajamana In the Hindu tradition, a ''yajamana'' is the ritual patron, on whose behalf a religious ritual or a ''yajna'' is performed by a priest, generally a Brahmin.Society and Religion: From Rugveda to Puranas, Jayant Gadkari, Popular Prakashan, 1996 p. ...
(2000) Other Awards: Kaladevi Award (Chennai) Indira Prathishtan National Award Tarangini Barkley


Karnataka State Film Awards :

* VishnuVardhan received Karnataka
Rajyothsava Prashasthi The Rajyotsava Prashasti or Rajyotsava Awards, the second highest civilian honor of the Karnataka state of India are conferred annually by the Karnataka Government on the occasion of the establishment of the state on 1 November celebrated as t ...
in 1990. * He bagged Kerala Cultural & Art Award * As an acknowledgment to his service to Indian cinema, the state government named its annual lifetime achievement award to long-serving film personalities after Vishnuvardhan, renaming it as the Karnataka State
Dr. Vishnuvardhan Award The Dr. Vishnuvardhan Award, instituted in 2011 for the 2008–09 Karnataka State Film Awards is an award given by the government of Karnataka to long-serving film personalities in Kannada cinema. The award previously called Lifetime Contributio ...
. * He has appeared on postage stamps issued by the Government of India posthumously. * Vishnuvardhan was given the
Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award - South ''Filmfare'' is an Indian English-language fortnightly magazine published by Worldwide Media. Acknowledged as one of Indian most popular entertainment magazines, it publishes pieces involving news, interviews, photos, videos, reviews, events, an ...
in 2002 for his contribution to the Kannada film industry. * The State Government has named roads and parks in the capital city
Bangalore Bangalore (), officially Bengaluru (), is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of more than and a metropolitan population of around , making it the third most populous city and fifth most ...
after him. A park in Jayanagar, Bengaluru has also been named as Dr. Vishnuvardhan Park. * The government of Karnataka decided to build a film city in the name of Dr. Vishnuvardhan. It will be similar to the model of Ramoji Film City in
Hyderabad Hyderabad ( ; , ) is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Telangana and the ''de jure'' capital of Andhra Pradesh. It occupies on the Deccan Plateau along the banks of the Musi River (India), Musi River, in the northern part ...
. * The Karnataka Assembly showed respect to the star by praying for a minute for his soul to rest in peace. After that, the election of the Speaker was held under chaotic circumstances as the Opposition parties wanted the elections to be postponed due to this shocking and unexpected incident. * There are statues erected in his honour, especially in
Bangalore Bangalore (), officially Bengaluru (), is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of more than and a metropolitan population of around , making it the third most populous city and fifth most ...
. A statue in Gowri Palya on 1 March 2012, Laggere on 4 March 2012, Kengeri on 9 October 2011, KP Agrahara in Vijayanagar on 11 March 2012 and in other places of Bengaluru and Karnataka were unveiled. * Vishnuvardhan was cremated at the Abhimaan Studios, in the outskirts of
Bangalore Bangalore (), officially Bengaluru (), is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of more than and a metropolitan population of around , making it the third most populous city and fifth most ...
on 30 December 2009 with full state honors. Almost all the leading politicians and actors were present there. * A 14.3 km-long stretch of road between the Banashankari Temple and Kengeri in
Bangalore Bangalore (), officially Bengaluru (), is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of more than and a metropolitan population of around , making it the third most populous city and fifth most ...
has been named after the superstar. It is the longest road in Asia to be named after a celebrity. * Vishnuvardhan's fans, for whom he is a demi-god, have built a temple for him naming it Dr. Vishnuvardhan Mandir. * He was called ''The Phoenix of Indian Cinema.''


Filmography


References


External links

* * {{DEFAULTSORT:Vishnuvardhan Indian male film actors Male actors in Kannada cinema Male actors from Mysore 1950 births 2009 deaths Kannada people Kannada playback singers Kannada male actors Male actors in Malayalam cinema Filmfare Awards South winners Male actors in Tamil cinema 20th-century Indian male actors 20th-century Indian singers Indian male television actors Singers from Mysore