On March 17, 2026, fans across Karnataka and beyond came together to celebrate the 51st birth anniversary of the late Kannada superstar Puneeth Rajkumar, fondly remembered as Appu. Born in 1975, Puneeth began his journey as a child actor alongside his father, the legendary Dr. Rajkumar, before rising to stardom with blockbuster hits such as Appu, Power**, and James. His contribution to cinema and society earned him the prestigious Karnataka Ratna, making him one of the most respected figures in the industry. Though he passed away in 2021 at the age of 46 due to cardiac arrest, his legacy continues to inspire millions.
Tributes poured in throughout the day, with fans sharing heartfelt messages under the hashtag #AppuLivesOn, while his wife Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar posted emotional notes remembering his warmth and humility. Production house Hombale Films released special videos celebrating his cinematic journey, further amplifying the wave of nostalgia. Prominent stars including Yash, Jr. NTR, and Allu Arjun joined in, highlighting Puneeth’s cross-industry friendships and his philanthropic efforts, particularly his support for students and old-age homes. The commemorations reflected not only his cinematic brilliance but also his enduring impact as a humanitarian whose influence transcended language and regional boundaries.
