Kannada Television actor Rakesh Poojary, who was the winner of Comedy Kiladigalu season 3, passed away on Sunday. The 34 year old actor died due to heart heart attack on May 11. According to a report by PTI, family sources informed that he died of sudden cardiac arrest, which took place at a mehendi ceremony in Nitte near Udupi on the evening of Sunday. Rakesh was rushed to a hospital, where he died. The Kannada actor shared some snaps from a pre-wedding ceremony. According to reports, Rakesh Poojary completed shooting for Rishab Shetty starrer Kantara Chapter 1. 

Another actor from the industry, Pruthvi Aambar reacted to the news of Rakesh Poojary’s demise. He wrote on X, “Always with a pure sweet hearted smile , ever loving , and extremely talented artist , you will always remain in our heart , deeply saddened , Rakesh we miss you!” 

Comedy Khiladigalu judge Rakshitha took to her Instagram Stories and expressed her grief about Rakesh’s death. In one story, Rakshitha wrote “Not able to come to terms that I will never be able to talk to Rakesha anymore… comedy khiladigalu is a show very close to my heart, n Rakesha was one person who always stood apart from the rest… The most beautiful person that he was… What a talent n even off camera the most perfect guy I knew… Rakesha u will always live in our hearts and everyone is gonna miss u… ur smile ur mischief n most importantly the happiness u brought into all our lives… Thank u Rakesha.”

In another story,  Rakshitha wrote, “The ever-smiling Rakesha… my fav Rakesha. The most sweetest, kindest, loving person… Namma Rakesha. will miss you mange.” 

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Comedy Khiladigalu judge Rakshitha expressed her grief about Rakesh’s death (Image: Instagram/rakshitha__official)

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Comedy Khiladigalu judge Rakshitha expressed her grief about Rakesh’s death (Image: Instagram/rakshitha__official)

Kantara 1 is the prequel to the movie of the same name, which has been directed by Rishab Shetty as well. A few days ago, there were reports, a junior artist had died by drowning in a river during his break. The makers of the film clarified that the incident did not take place on the set of the film. 

Kantara Chapter 1 also stars Sapthami Gowda, Jayaram, Kishore Kumar G, Achyuth Kumar and Pramod Shetty in key roles. The film was made on a budget of Rs 125 crore. As per reports, it is slated to release in theatres in the second half of 2025.