Kannada actor Lalithamma dies at 65 in Bengaluru

Veteran Kannada actor Lalithamma has died in Bengaluru at the age of 65. She made her mark in theatre, television serials and films alike, and her death has left the Kannada entertainment and theatre world in mourning.

In films, Lalithamma was best known for the role of Sarai Sharade, a villain, in Darshan-starrer Suntaragaali. The character was liked by audiences and became a key role in her career. She went on to work in many Kannada films, including Jothegali, Life Is Estene, Vajrakaya, Putra and Jackie. She mostly appeared in supporting and character roles and carved out a distinct place in the Kannada film industry.

Her association with Kannada theatre went back several decades. She worked on stage for a full 35 years, and her performances gave the characters she played in different plays a distinct identity. The influence of that long theatre experience showed in her work on television and in films.

After theatre, she became a familiar face on Kannada television. She played important roles in popular serials such as Rangoli, Mangalya and Mahamayi. Through supporting and character roles, she became a household name. For many years she kept appearing before viewers in a range of serials.

She had been troubled for the past few months by ailments related to advancing age. She suffered a stroke about two and a half months before her death and had since been undergoing treatment at the Ammana Madilu Trust in Bengaluru. She breathed her last at around 9.30 am.

Following news of her death, artistes from the Kannada entertainment and theatre world expressed their grief. The world of the arts has lost an experienced performer who left her mark from the stage to television and films.