Chorus demanding 'Padma Shri' award for Puneeth Rajkumar grows
Bengaluru, Nov 7: Chorus demanding 'Padma Shri' award posthumously to Kannada film star Puneeth Rajkumar, who died recently, seems to be growing, as two Ministers of the Karnataka government on Sunday urged the Chief Minister to make a recommendation to the Centre in this connection.
Considered the Kannada cinema's reigning star, Puneeth, youngest of five children of thespian and matinee idol Dr Rajkumar, had died of a cardiac arrest on October 29 at the age of 46.
Agriculture Minister B C Patil said, Puneeth Rajkumar should have been given Padma Shri when he was alive for his achievements, but unfortunately as he is no longer with us physically, it has to be given to him posthumously .
"As a fan, I too join other fans (in their demand). Being part of the government, I urge the Chief Minister to recommend the same to the Centre. Puneeth is qualified for it not only as an actor, but also for his service to the society," the actor-turned- politician said, adding that if the matter comes before the cabinet it will get unanimous consent.
Minister for Tourism Anand Singh too in Haveri said, "Puneeth Rajkumar is a person who had a mentality to serve mankind, he had joined us in several campaigns of public good like pulse polio campaign, when I was into social service... I extend my support to the demand seeking Padma Shri to him."
Kannada Actor Prem, too wished that Puneeth Rajkumar be given the Padma Shri award at the earliest.
Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the state, Siddaramaiah had recently urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to award Padma Shri posthumously to Puneeth.
"The love and affection Power Star Puneeth Rajkumar has gained is bigger than any title or award. I urge the Prime Minister of India to award Padma Shri posthumously to Puneeth Rajkumar. His acting and contribution to society deserves even more accolades," he had tweeted.
Recently Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, responding to a question by the media on such a demand, said, "There are rules on when and people from which sectors should be recommended for Padma awards, it will be in a way unanimous recommendation for Puneeth Rajkumar. As a government considering everything, we will take a decision."
He said the entire state and the government has love and respect for Puneeth Rajkumar.
Padma Shri is one of the highest civilian honours of India announced annually on the eve of Republic Day, for distinguished service.
Puneeth, popularly known as 'Appu' and 'Powerstar', by his fans, won a national award as a child artist for the film Bettada Hoovu. He then re-emerge as a lead actor in 2002 and went on to star in 29 films, delivering some big hits.
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P Chidambaram faints at Sabarmati Ashram, son says he is fine
Ahmedabad, Apr 8 (PTI): Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram fell unconscious at the Sabarmati Ashram here on Tuesday and was taken to hospital.
Sources said he probably fainted due to the heat after a hectic day.
The 79-year-old former finance minister's son Karti later said on X that his father is fine and is being examined by doctors.
The incident occurred when Congress leaders were attending a prayer meeting at the Sabarmati Ashram.
As Chidambaram fell unconscious, he was carried by other leaders to an ambulance which took him to hospital.
Earlier in the day, Chidambaram attended the extended Congress Working Committee meeting at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Memorial.
My father @PChidambaram_IN had an episode of presyncope due to extreme heat & dehydration in Ahmedabad & is under observation in Zydus Hospital. The doctors are reviewing his parameters which are currently normal. @ANI @PTI_News
— Karti P Chidambaram (@KartiPC) April 8, 2025
My father is fine & is being examined by doctors.
— Karti P Chidambaram (@KartiPC) April 8, 2025
