The number of people demanding the ‘Padma Shri’ award after the sudden demise of Kannada film star Puneeth Rajkumar seems to grow.
On Sunday, two Ministers of the Karnataka government have urged the Chief Minister to make a recommendation in this connection to the Central government.
Puneeth Rajkumar was the son of veteran actor Dr Rajkumar, who was an idol to thousands of people.
Dr Rajkumar donated his eyes as he pledged, and following in his Puneeth donated his eyes too.
On 29 October, Puneeth Rajkumar died of cardiac arrest at the age of 46.
BC Patil, Agriculture Minister, said that the Padma Shri award should have been given to Puneeth Rajkumar for his achievements when he was alive. Still, unfortunately, Puneeth is no more with us, and thus, the Padma Shri must be given to him posthumously.
The actor-turned-politician also said that he, as a fan too, joins other fans in their demand to give Puneeth the Padma Shri award.
He stated that being part of the government, he urges the Chief Minister to recommend their demand to the Centre.
He also said that Puneeth was just not recognized for his acting skills but also as a kind person who provided many services to society.
The Agriculture Minister further added that this matter would get unanimous consent if it is discussed before the cabinet.
In Haveri, Minister of Tourism, Anand Singh, too, said that Puneeth had the mentality of helping everyone and serving humankind.
Anand Singh further added that when he was into social service, Puneeth had joined him several times in many campaigns of public good such as the pulse polio campaign.
The Minister said that he extends his support for demanding the Padma Shri award for Puneeth.
Just like other actors, Kannada Actor Prem, too, wished that the Padma Shri award should have been given to Puneeeth when he was alive.
Padma Shri is announced annually on the eve of Republic Day, and it is one of the highest honours of India.
Puneeth Rajkumar was popularly known as the ‘Power Star’ of the Kannada film industry by his fans.
Puneeth made his debut on screen in the industry when he was six months old and received a national award as a child artist for his role in the film Bettada Hoovu.
In 2002, he re-emerged as a lead actor, and since then, he has delivered some big hits while starring in 29 movies.