Kannada actor Puneeth Rajkumar was a highly acclaimed and beloved actor in the Indian film industry, particularly in Karnataka. He was renowned for his exceptional acting skills, captivating on-screen presence, and versatility.
However, beyond his impressive acting career, Puneeth was also deeply committed towards philanthropy and giving back to the community. The late actor was known for his kindness and dedication to various social causes which earned him immense admiration and respect among his fans. On his 50th birth anniversary, a look at his most philanthropic works.
Kannada actor Puneeth Rajkumar donated his eyes
Late actor Puneeth Rajkumar was dedicated towards society and decided to donate his eyes following his death. However, Puneeth was the third member of his family to donate his eyes after his father Dr Rajkumar and mother Parvathamma.
Dr Bhujanga Shetty, Director of Narayana Nethralaya, previously recalled the moment when he received a call from Puneeth's elder brother, Raghavendra Rajkumar, asking him to collect Puneeth's eyes for donation, following the actor’s demise.
Puneeth Rajkumar collaborated with his mother to help abuse victims
Puneeth Rajkumar was also involved in charitable work with his mother at the Shakthidhama ashram in Mysore. Through this organization, he helped thousands of underprivileged girl students with education.
The actor’s organization provided shelter, education, and life skills training to women and girls who are victims of abuse, trafficking, and poverty. Around 4,000 women have been benefited from his organization. The organization is now supported by Puneeth ‘s family.
Puneeth Rajkumar supported orphanages and old age homes
Puneeth Rajkumar has been an inspiration to many, encouraging them to follow in his footsteps and make a positive impact on their communities. The actor was notably supporting 26 orphanages, 16 old age homes and 19 cow shelters before his death.
The actor has previously admitted that he donated his own earnings to charities. Puneeth also used to make contributions to several Kannada medium schools.
Puneeth Rajkumar’s fight against COVID-19
Puneeth Rajkumar actively supported families during tough times, but he didn't often talk about his charitable work. During the COVID-19 crisis, he donated Rs 50 lakh to the Karnataka CM Relief Fund to help the state. He also spread awareness about COVID-19 throughout 2020 and 2021. The then Karnataka CM, BS Yediyurappa, even tweeted about Puneeth's donation, praising his generosity and commitment to helping others.
Additionally, the actor also supported the film industry personalities who lost their jobs due to the pandemic.
The Kannada superstar Puneeth Rajkumar came forward to help the victims of North Karnataka during the severe flood in 2019. The actor donated Rs 5 lakh to the Chief Minister’s Natural Calamity Relief Fund.
Also Read: Puneeth Rajkumar, Kannada actor, passes away
For the unversed, Kannada actor Puneeth Rajkumar was rushed to Bengaluru’s Vikram Hospital after complaining of chest pain following his two-hour gym session. The actor died soon after hospitalization.
Puneeth’s strong performances in films earned him a massive following and critical acclaim. The actor is remembered for his various social works.
He is survived by his wife Ashwini Revanth and two daughters Dhriti and Vanditha.
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