Veteran Kannada actor Harish Rai, widely recognized for his powerful performances in films like Om and the KGF series, has died at the age of 55 after a prolonged battle with cancer. His passing was confirmed by Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on social media, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Harish Rai leaves behind his wife and two sons. Throughout his career spanning several decades, he became known for portraying intense villain roles that captivated audiences. His work in Shivarajkumar's cult classic Om and Prashanth Neel's blockbuster KGF franchise earned him widespread recognition and cemented his legacy in South Indian cinema. Rai's versatility allowed him to work across Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu film industries, where he earned both critical acclaim and audience admiration. His death marks the end of an era for a performer widely respected for his powerful screen presence and ability to bring layered characters to life.
Legacy of Memorable Roles and Industry Tributes
Harish Rai appeared in numerous successful films including Samara, Bangalore Underworld, Jodihakki, Raj Bahadur, Sanju Weds Geetha, Swayamvara, and Nalla. His performances in Om and the KGF series brought him widespread fame and audience affection. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar mourned his passing, stating that the film industry has become poorer with his death. In his tribute, Shivakumar praised Harish Rai's wonderful acting in films like Om, Hello Yama, and both KGF installments, noting how he attracted everyone's attention. He prayed for peace for the departed soul and strength for the grieving family. Rai's ability to portray complex villain characters made him a standout performer throughout his career.
Source: Link