Government Announces Karnataka Ratna To Puneeth Rajkumar

Kannada Powerstar Puneeth Rajkumar’s sudden demise created a void in the Kannada film industry. The actor died due to a cardiac arrest in Bangalore. Now, the government of Karnataka announced Karnataka Ratna Award posthumously. Karnataka CM has taken to his official Twitter handle and shared the information.

Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai’s official Twitter handle read, “State Government has decided to honor late Sri Puneet Rajkumar with Karnataka Ratna award posthumously.”

Karnataka Ratna is the state’s highest civilian award and the government has made the announcement at a special event called Puneeth Namana held in Bengaluru on Tuesday, November 16th.

Puneeth Rajkumar’s wife Ashwini shared a statement today for the first time after her husband’s demise. “It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge the condolences from millions, not only cinephiles but people of all ages from India and abroad alike. I am in tears when I see thousands of you follow your dear Appu’s path and register for eye donation. He will live on in these good deeds that you do by keeping him as an ideal and also in the zeal that his memory inspires in you. On behalf of our entire family, heartfelt gratitude to all the fans and every individual for your love and support.” she said in her statement.

Puneeth passed away due to a massive cardiac arrest on October 29th. The actor’s family performed the final rites with full state honors.