Rajinikanth Writes A Note In Kannada To Condole Death of Journalist KJ Kumar

Tamil cinema superstar Rajinikanth took to social media on Thursday to express his profound grief over the passing of veteran Kannada journalist K J Kumar. In a heartfelt message shared in Kannada, the actor remembered his long-time friend, who passed away in Mysuru on Wednesday.

Remembering the journalist as a dear friend, Rajinikanth stated that Kumar had been a source of admiration and encouragement for his acting career right from its inception. Describing him as a man of great simplicity who always greeted others with a smile, the actor noted that his departure has left a deep void and caused immense pain. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

K J Kumar, 74, a towering figure in Kannada media and film circles for more than four decades, succumbed to a massive heart attack. According to sources, Kumar complained of chest pain on Wednesday afternoon and was immediately rushed to a private hospital in Saraswathipuram. He was, however, declared brought dead by the attending doctors.

A specialist in cinema reporting, Kumar shared a warm and enduring rapport with numerous industry stalwarts, including Rajinikanth and late actor-politician Ambareesh. Beyond journalism, he also had business interests in the hotel and hospitality sector. A native of Korangrapadi in Udupi district, Kumar had migrated to Mysuru in 1969 to assist his maternal uncle, the late freedom fighter, journalist, and former MLC A Ramanna.

He is survived by his wife Usha, daughter Sunamya Shetty, and sister and former corporator Prameela Prakash. Family members have confirmed that his remains will be taken to his residence near A Ramanna Circle in Yadavgiri on Thursday morning, with the last rites scheduled for the afternoon at the crematorium at the foot of Chamundi Hill. Several dignitaries, including MLC K Shivakumar, have condoled his demise.

Coming back to Rajinikanth, he has completed the shooting of his upcoming movie Jailer 2. Nelson-directed movie is a sequel to the 2023 blockbuster Jailer.

It is slated for a theatrical release on June 12.

The sequel boasts an expansive ensemble cast, with Ramya Krishnan returning as his wife. While Kannada superstar Shivaraj Kumar has confirmed his cameo, the involvement of other senior actors like Mohanlal and Jackie Shroff is yet to be officially announced. New additions to the cast include Mithun Chakraborty, Vijay Sethupathi, and Santhanam, among others. There is also significant buzz surrounding potential appearances by Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Nora Fatehi, as well as actors like Vidya Balan and SJ Suryah.

In addition to Jailer 2, Rajinikanth is preparing to commence work on Thalaivar 173, directed by Cibi Chakravarthy and produced by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International, with filming set to begin in April.

The two cinematic legends are also expected to reunite for another project, tentatively titled KHxRK, which will also be helmed by Nelson with music by Anirudh Ravichander.