Dr Raj fans shun pomp on his anniversary, say thespian was a responsible citizen

Sangamesh Menasinakai | TNN | Apr 23, 2020, 04:24 IST

Hubballi: He was a matinee idol, and yet few were as humble, and unaffectedly simple. In addition to his natural talent, which was phenomenal, such were the attributes that have secured for Dr Rajkumar a permanent place in the hearts of Kannadigas. To his legion of fans, April 24 – his birth anniversary – is no less sacred than a festival, and it is celebrated with as much fervour. However, with the lockdown in place this year, and keeping in mind the late thespian’s regard for the law, his admirers in North Karnataka have decided to shun pomp in favour of a more artistic tribute to ‘Annavaru’, as he was fondly called.
Most of his fans across the state have decided to watch Dr Rajkumar’s iconic movies on his birth anniversary, and pay a most fitting tribute to their idol.
The late actor’s bond with North Karnataka was forged when he was still a struggling artiste, but even after he touched dizzying highs as a star, he never forgot his special tie with the region, which he visited frequently. Dr Rajkumar also conducted and participated in several charity events to raise funds when North Karnataka was in distress.
President of the Dr Rajkumar Abhimanigala Sangha, Dharwad Shivanand Muttannavar said that, above all, the actor had been a responsible citizen who abided by the law. “Keeping this in mind, we will garland his statue at his memorial at Gabbur Cross, after which we will distribute provisions to the needy in Dr Rajkumar’s memory,” said Muttannavar.