Kannada Comedy Legend 'Mysore' Srikantayya Umesh Passes Away at 80 After Cancer Battle

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Veteran Kannada actor 'Mysore' Srikantayya Umesh, a name synonymous with comedy in the region, has left behind a legacy that will be cherished by fans for years to come. The 80-year-old actor, who had a six-decade-long career in the film industry, passed away on Sunday in Bengaluru after a prolonged battle with cancer. Umesh, a household name in Karnataka, had been a part of over 350 films, starting his journey as a child actor in Makkala Rajya (1960). Born in Mysuru on April 24, 1945, Umesh's acting career was marked by a mix of successes and challenges. He faced a lull early on, but his breakthrough came with the 1977 film Katha Sangama. His portrayal of Thimmarayi in Munithaayi, which featured Rajinikanth and Aarathi, earned him widespread recognition. Throughout his illustrious career, Umesh had the opportunity to work with some of the biggest names in Kannada cinema, including Rajkumar, Sivaji Ganesan, and Ambareesh. His comedy roles in films like Nagara Hole (1978), Apoorva Sangama (1984), and Venkata in Sankata (2007) remain some of his most memorable performances. Fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to the legendary actor, with many reminiscing about his iconic roles and the joy he brought to audiences through his performances. JD(S) leader and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy described Umesh as a master of fresh humour who could make audiences float in a sea of laughter. As the Kannada film industry mourns the loss of a comedy giant, Umesh's legacy will continue to entertain and inspire generations to come.