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Published By : Tuhina Sahoo
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Bangalore, Dec 1: Mysore Srikantayya Umesh, popularly known as Umesh, the veteran comedian and actor of the Kannada film industry, has passed away at the age of 80 after a battle with cancer. Umesh's death on Sunday has left the Kannada film world and his fans in mourning.

Umesh was widely admired for his impeccable comic timing and natural performances, which brought laughter and joy to generations of audiences. His contribution to Kannada cinema remains invaluable, with his legacy cemented through his numerous memorable performances.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his sorrow over the actor's passing. On X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: "The news of Umesh’s passing, the celebrated comedian of the Kannada film industry, has brought great sadness. His natural performances entertained audiences for many years, and to this esteemed individual who contributed to Kannada cinema, a heartfelt farewell. I pray that his soul finds eternal peace."

H D Kumaraswamy, JD(S) leader and Union Minister, also paid his tributes to the late actor. “I was deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of the renowned artist Shri M.S. Umesh. Umesh, who would make audiences float in a sea of laughter through his fresh humor, is an actor who enriched the Kannada film industry. Having delivered captivating performances in numerous films including ‘Guru Shishyaru’, ‘Haalu Jenu’, ‘Apurva Sangama’, his departure is a huge loss to the Kannada art world. Om Shanti,” he posted.

Umesh’s career began at an early age when he appeared in Master K Hirannaiah’s theatre group in a play titled Lanchavatara. His film career took off in 1960 with the lead role in the movie Makkala Rajya, which firmly established him as a prominent figure in the Kannada film industry.

Throughout his career, Umesh acted in several iconic films, including Nagara Hole (1978), Guru Shishyaru (1981), Anupama (1981), Kaamana Billu (1983), and Venkata in Sankata (2007). His performances were characterized by humor and simplicity, making him a beloved figure in Kannada cinema.