Copyright newskarnataka
Veteran Kannada actor Harish Rai, best known for his memorable roles in Om and KGF, passed away on Thursday after a prolonged battle with cancer. The 54-year-old actor breathed his last at Kidwai Hospital in Bengaluru, where he had been undergoing treatment for thyroid cancer. He is survived by his wife and two sons. Illness and treatment struggle Rai, who had been open about his health challenges, revealed earlier this year that his cancer had spread from his thyroid to his stomach. Despite undergoing multiple treatment cycles, his health had deteriorated in recent weeks. His body had grown frail and thin, while his abdomen was visibly swollen due to fluid accumulation. Speaking in a video shared by social media influencer Gopi Gowdru, the actor had appealed to fans and well-wishers for financial support to continue his treatment. In the video, he expressed hope that he could return to acting if his health improved. However, despite best efforts, his treatment could not save him, and he passed away on Thursday. Fans and film fraternity mourn his demise The news of Harish Rai’s death has left Kannada cinema fans and colleagues deeply saddened. Tributes poured in on social media, with many remembering his impactful performances and humble nature. One fan wrote, “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of actor Harish Rai, who had been bravely battling cancer. The film industry came together to support him, but fate had other plans. Known for his memorable roles in Om, KGF and many Kannada films, may his soul rest in peace.” Another user posted, “RIP Sir 💐 KGF Chacha Harish Rai Sir has passed away today. Thank you for entertaining us, sir. You will always be remembered.” Many others recalled his popularity in Sai Kumar’s films during the 1990s and the national recognition he received after his role as Chacha in KGF. “KGF gave him national fame. RIP sir… you’ve gone to a better place,” a user commented. High cost of cancer treatment Before his death, Rai had spoken publicly about the financial burden of his treatment. In an earlier interview, he shared that one injection cost around ₹3.55 lakh and doctors had prescribed three such injections per cycle over 63 days, amounting to about ₹10.5 lakh per cycle. He estimated that his overall treatment could cost nearly ₹70 lakh, depending on the number of injections required. When asked about reports that KGF star Yash had extended financial help, Harish Rai clarified that while Yash had helped him earlier, he had not approached him again. “Yash has helped me before. I cannot keep asking him every time. How much can one person do? I haven’t informed him about my health, but I know if he comes to know, he will definitely stand by me. He’s just one call away,” Rai had said. He also mentioned that his family and sons would reach out to Yash if necessary, expressing deep faith in the actor’s support. A versatile career across industries Harish Rai’s career spanned Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu cinema. He was fondly remembered for his role as Don Rai in Om, and as Chacha in KGF Chapters 1 and 2, which brought him national recognition. Some of his notable films include Samara, Bangalore Underworld, Jodihakki, Raj Bahadur, Sanju Weds Geetha, Swayamvara, and Nalla. Despite his success, Rai had spoken about the challenges of sustaining a film career while facing health and financial setbacks. In one of his last interviews, he revealed difficulties in receiving donations as his bank accounts were frequently blocked, forcing him to share QR codes for direct contributions. A lasting legacy Harish Rai’s passing marks the loss of a talented and humble artist who brought authenticity to every role he played. His performances in Om and KGF remain etched in the memory of fans, symbolising the enduring charm of Kannada cinema. As tributes continue to pour in, fans and colleagues alike remember him not just for his screen presence but for his resilience, humility, and indomitable spirit.
