AMBAREESH, Kannadiga Films Matinee Idol, is No More

M H Ambareesh, actor- producer and politician of Karnataka, has passed away aged 66 in Bengaluru. Ambareesh, who was a Minister of State at the Centre and former Member of Parliament, enjoyed status of a matinee idol. A pall of gloom descended on the southern state as soon as TV channels broke his said demise. Crowds gathered at the private hospital where he breathed his last on November 24.  Ambareesh died of cardiac arrest .The veteran actor has acted in over 200 films starting his career in 1972, playing negative roles before becoming a lead actor. Also   Known as  Malavalli Huchche Gowda Amarnath, he  was born on June 29, 1952, in Mandya, Karntaka . He was winner of  several Filmfare awards and state Government awards, Ambareesh made his debut in 1972 with the National Award-winning film, Naagarahaavu. He started his acting career by portraying antagonistic and supporting roles in Kannada films. Some of his notable films were Shubhamangala, Bangarada Gudi, Banashankari, Putani Agent 123, Bhaari Bharjari Bete, Antha, Gandu Bherunda, Onde Raktha and Nammoora Hammera. Ambareesh, who is fondly known as the ‘Rebel star’ had a huge fan following in his career which spanned over 50 years in the industry. The noted Kannada actor was thrice elected to the Lok Sabha.He  had not been keeping well in recent years. The legendary actor, who is also popularly known as ‘Ambi,’ is survived by his wife, actress Sumalatha and son Abhishek. “An era of love and affection in the Kannada Film industry has ended with his demise,” says Chief Minister of Karnataka, H D Kumaraswamy