K'taka filmdom pays rich tributes to Rajkumar

Bangalore, Apr 19 (UNI) Paying rich tributes to Kannada Matinee idol Rajkumar, Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy today announced that two acres of land would be allocated at the Kanteerva Studios in the city to build a fitting memorial to the thespian.

Speaking at a meeting organised by the Karnataka Film Chamber to condole the death of the veteran actor, he assured that his government would fulfil the demand of the Kannada film industry to recognise the services of Mr Rajkumar to the state.

Stating that he was inspired by the great actor's ideals and simplicity, he regretted that lakhs of people could not get a glimpse of Mr Rajkumar on his funeral day due to the violence and arson unleashed by some miscreants in the city.

Speaking on the occasion, yesteryear actress Saroja Devi, who had paired with Mr Rajkumar in several films, said Mr Rajkumar's contribution to Indian cinema was immense.

She urged the state government to build a memorial in honour of the great actor who had donned the grease paint in over 200 films.

Several leading lights of the Kannada film industry, producers and directors also paid their respects to the actor at the meeting.

Elaborate security arrangements were made at the venue to avoid any untoward incident.

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