Veteran Kannada actor Umesh passes away at 80 after prolonged illness

Bengaluru — The Kannada film industry is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved artistes, Mysore Srikantayya Umesh — popularly known simply as Umesh — who passed away on Sunday, 30 November 2025, at the age of 80. He breathed his last while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Bengaluru.

Umesh had been battling serious health issues for some time and was recently admitted to hospital following complications. Reports say that a fall at his Bengaluru residence led doctors to discover advanced liver cancer. His health deteriorated over the ensuing weeks, culminating in his deat.

Born on 24 April 1945 in Mysuru, Umesh’s journey in acting began when he was just four years old, joining a children’s theatre troupe. His film debut came in 1960 with the movie Makkala Rajya. Though his early career saw ups and downs, Umesh’s big break arrived with Katha Sangama (1977), after which he carved out a niche as a master of comic and character roles.

Over six decades, he featured in more than 350 films — including memorable roles in titles like Nagara Hole (1978), Guru Shishyaru (1981), Golmaal Radhakrishna (1990), and Venkata in Sankata (2007). Known for his unique comic timing, expressive dialogue delivery and screen presence, Umesh had become a household name across generations of Kannada film lovers.

Umesh’s contribution to cinema was formally recognised — among other honours, he had won the Karnataka State Film Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1975, and the Karnataka Nataka Akademi Award (for his contribution to theatre) in 2013.

Leaders, colleagues and fans have already begun pouring in heartfelt tributes. Many fondly recalled how Umesh’s comedic roles brought joy to millions. As one prominent figure from the industry put it, “He would make audiences float in a sea of laughter through his fresh humour.

His death marks the end of an era — a grand chapter in the annals of Kannada cinema. The loss will be deeply felt by generations who grew up laughing at his performances.