Noted playwright, veteran actor, and theater personality, Girish Karnad passed away on Monday morning, in Bengaluru, due to multiple organ failure. Girish Karnad, who was a Jnanpith awardee, was 81 years old.
In his illustrious career, he was also awarded the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan by the Government of India. As an artist, he was a vocal proponent of freedom of expression, and his works reflected the same.
In fact, he has stood in protest multiple times – whether it was taking a stand against journalist Gauri Lankesh’s murder, or standing in solidarity with the nation against the lynching of a sixteen-year-old, Girish Karnad made sure his voice was heard.
Although he primarily worked in Kannada movies, his contribution to the Hindi film industry was no less noteworthy. Some of his memorable performances include movies like Tabbaliyu Neenade Magane, Ondanondu Kaaladalli, Swami, Utsav, Apne Paraaye, Nishaant, and the most recent, Tiger Zinda Hai.
Many people and celebrities took to Twitter to express their grief at his demise.
His demise marks the end of an era in Indian cinema and theater, and his contribution to the entertainment industry can never be forgotten. We hope his soul rests in peace.