Acting

Srinivasa Murthy

Born 15 May 1949 · Died 27 January 2023 at 73

**Jadalathimmanahalli Srinivasa Murthy** (born 15 May 1949), known simply as **Srinivasa Murthy**, is a veteran Indian actor, television director, and producer who works predominantly in Kannada cinema. With a prolific career spanning nearly five decades, he is widely celebrated as one of the most reliable, dignified, and enduring character actors in Sandalwood, known for playing authoritative fathers, mentors, and respectable figures. Born in Jadalathimmanahalli in the Kolar district (now Chikkaballapura), Karnataka, Murthy completed his education and initially served in the Survey Department under the Government of Karnataka. However, driven by a deep love for the performing arts, he started his journey as a stage artist, working extensively in both professional and amateur theatre before making a successful transition to the silver screen. He made his feature film debut in 1977 with the critically acclaimed film *Hemavathi*. Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, he built a solid reputation as a dependable supporting actor, appearing alongside legendary stars in major classics such as *Huliya Haalina Mevu* (1979), *Guru Shishyaru* (1981), *Keralida Simha* (1981), *Kaviratna Kalidasa* (1983), and *Kanoonige Saval* (1984). His nuanced performances earned him early recognition, including the Karnataka State Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in *Naari Swargakke Daari* (1981–82). Expanding his creative footprint behind the camera, Murthy became a producer early in his career, partnering with actor Jai Jagadish to produce hit films such as *Maathru Devo Bhava* and *Thaayigobba Tharlemaga*. He also ventured into direction, helming acclaimed children's films like *Devara Makkalu*, which won the Karnataka State Film Award for Best Children's Film, as well as popular television serials like *Anna Basavanna* and *Triveni Sangama*. In mainstream cinema, his career experienced a powerful resurgence across decades as he seamlessly transitioned into playing quintessential patriarchal figures. His extensive and celebrated filmography includes memorable roles in *Appu* (2002), *My Autograph* (2006), *Prithvi* (2010), *Aptharakshaka* (2010), *Doddmane Hudga* (2016), and *Natasaarvabhowma* (2019). He achieved massive pan-Indian visibility with his impactful role as the judge in the blockbuster action epics *K.G.F: Chapter 1* (2018) and *K.G.F: Chapter 2* (2022). In recognition of his monumental contributions to Kannada theatre, television, and cinema, he was honored with the prestigious **Dr. Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award** by the Government of Karnataka in 2018.