Veteran Kannada actor Chandrashekhar dies in Canada

Bengaluru: Kannada actor Chandrashekhar passed away in Canada early on Saturday at the age of 63. He is survived by his mother, wife and daughter.

Unlike many proteges of veteran director Puttanna Kanagal, Chandrashekhar was not introduced by him. He made his debut as a child actor in the 1969 film Namma Makkalu, directed by B R Panthulu.

A product of National College like his contemporaries Srinath and Vishnuvardhan, Chandru (known as Tomato Chandru for his fair complexion) became popular after acting in Edakallu Guddada Mele, Dharani Mandala Madhayadolage and Raja Namma Raja, which also starred matinee idol Rajkumar.

Chandrashekhar directed the film Poorvapara in 2004. His last movie as an actor was 3 Ghante, 30 Dina, 30 Secondu.

He had moved to Canada after marriage and worked with the Indian High Commission there.