Veteran Kannada Actor Harish Rai, KGF’s Beloved ‘Chacha,’ Passes Away After Long Cancer Battle

Veteran Kannada actor Harish Rai, widely recognized for his powerful performances in acclaimed films like Om and KGF, passed away on Thursday, November 6, after a prolonged battle with thyroid cancer. The 54-year-old actor was undergoing treatment at Kidwai Hospital in Bengaluru, where he breathed his last. His illness had reportedly advanced, affecting his stomach and severely weakening his body. Rai is survived by his wife and two sons.

Harish Rai earned a place in the hearts of movie lovers through his memorable portrayals, especially that of Don Rai in Om and Chacha in KGF. His versatility and commanding screen presence made him a respected figure in the Kannada film industry. However, in recent months, reports revealed that he had been struggling financially due to the soaring cost of his medical treatment. In an earlier video shared by social media influencer Gopi Gowdru, the actor spoke about his health battle and expressed his desire to return to acting if his condition improved.

The actor’s treatment was reportedly very expensive, with each injection costing around Rs 3.55 lakh. Each treatment cycle required three injections across 63 days, amounting to approximately Rs 10.5 lakh per cycle. Some patients, according to Rai, needed up to 20 injections, pushing costs closer to Rs 70 lakh. Despite the immense financial strain, he maintained an optimistic outlook, frequently expressing gratitude toward those who had supported him in the past.

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Following news of Harish Rai’s demise, condolences poured in from across the industry. Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar led the tributes, posting an emotional message on X. “The passing away of Harish Roy, the renowned villain actor of Kannada cinema, is an extremely sorrowful event. The film industry has become poorer with his death,” he wrote, praising Rai’s impactful roles in Om, Hello Yama, and the KGF franchise. Shivakumar also offered prayers for the actor’s soul and strength to his bereaved family.

In a heartfelt statement from earlier this year, Rai had spoken about his affection for KGF star Yash, acknowledging the actor’s previous help but clarifying he hadn’t reached out again for assistance. “Yash is just one call away,” Rai had said. “I know if he hears about me, he would stand by me.” His words reflected his deep humility and the mutual respect that continues to bind the Kannada film fraternity. Harish Rai’s passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, depth, and passion that enriched the industry for decades.

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