Ambareesh, born Malavalli Huchche Gowda Amarnath on 29 May 1952 in Doddarasinakere, Mandya district, Karnataka, was a celebrated Indian actor and politician. Fondly known as the “Rebel Star” and “Mandya-da Gandu,” he made his acting debut in the Kannada film Naagarahaavu (1972), directed by Puttanna Kanagal. Over the course of his career, he acted in more than 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi cinema, becoming one of the most iconic figures in the Kannada film industry. His powerful screen presence and unique style earned him immense popularity, and he was often cast in strong, rebellious roles that resonated with audiences.
Beyond cinema, Ambareesh had a significant political career. He served as a Member of Parliament from Mandya and held ministerial positions, including Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and later Minister of Housing in the Government of Karnataka. Married to actress Sumalatha, he was admired for his charismatic personality both on and off screen. Ambareesh passed away on 24 November 2018 in Bangalore at the age of 66, leaving behind a legacy as both a beloved actor and a respected public figure in Karnataka.