Yediyurappa lays foundation stone for late actor Vishnu Vardhan’s memorial

Mysuru, Sep 15(UNI) Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Tuesday laid virtually the foundation stone for late actor Vishnuvardhan’s memorial at Halalu village. The Chief Minister participated in the function from his Krishna Bangaluru residence online. Speaking on the occasion, he underlined that Vishnuvardhan was one of the prominent Kannada film actors produced by Karnataka. He was not just an actor but also an excellent human being.

He said the actor known for his acting and called “sahasa simha” title and his career spanning 38 years is an inspiration for the younger generations. Besides acting, he was also very active in social works, he added.

The memorial was already delayed due to various reasons, he said, adding the work should be finished as soon as possible.

Though it will be a low-key affair as only select guests have been invited on Vishnuvardhan’s birth anniversary that falls on September 18. The actor died on December 30, 2009.

Dr Bharathi Vishnuvardhan, the late actor’s wife, said that she was happy that the memorial is becoming a reality after eleven years.

“His fans have been waiting for this day and it is a matter of great relief. We have only invited select guests and I appeal to his fans not to come to the venue as there is COVID contagion. Health is wealth and people must watch out as this is a crucial time. Fans can also come to the memorial after the pandemic is over,” she said.

Thanking the State Government for its support and especially CM Yediyurappa, the noted actress said that Yediyurappa had taken special interest in the memorial and had consented to virtually lay the foundation stone.

He clarified that though the family and architects have prepared the blueprint for the memorial and its components, no decision has been taken on Vishnu statue.

“The memorial must be of use to everyone including common man, artistes and film industry aspirants. Our main intention is this. People and Vishnu’s fans can relive his memory at the memorial. Rest of the works will be decided as and when the memorial construction is in progress,” she said.

Three matinee idols ruled the Kannada film industry called Sandalwood for many decades — Dr. Rajkumar, Dr. Vishnuvardhan and Ambarish. While Rajkumar has a memorial built at Kanteerava Studios in Bengaluru, Ambarish’s memorial is set to come up at Kanteerava Studios. However, due to tussle over land, Bharathi Vishnuvardhan decided to shift the memorial to Mysuru, Vishnuvardhan’s native place.

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