Veteran Kannada Film, TV Actor, And Theatre Personality Sarigama Viji Dies At 77

Sarigama Viji Passes Away: Veteran Kannada actor, writer, and television personality Sarigama Viji has passed away. According to a report by The Times of India, he was 77 and had been undergoing treatment for multiple organ failure at Manipal Hospital in Yeshwantpur over the past four days. His health turned critical on January 12, leading to his hospitalization and intensive care treatment. Despite the medical team's best efforts, he succumbed earlier today.

As per the report, Sarigama Viji's mortal remains will be brought to his residence in Mahalakshmipuram at 1 PM today for public homage. Fans and well-wishers can pay their respects from 1 PM today until 10 AM tomorrow (January 16). The final rites will be conducted at the Chamarajpet Crematorium at 10 AM tomorrow.

Sarigama Viji's Legacy in Kannada Cinema, Theatre, and TV

Born R. Vijaykumar, Sarigama Viji carved a niche for himself in Kannada cinema, theatre, and television. He began his career working at NGEF before venturing into acting, debuting in the 1975 film Beluvalada Madilalli. Over the years, he appeared in approximately 269 Kannada films and worked as an assistant director in 80 of them. His notable film credits include Maduve Madi Nodu (1965), Kappu Kola (1980), Prathap (1990), Kempaiah IPS (1993), Gold Medal (1994), and Swartharatna (2018).

In theatre, Sarigama Viji was widely recognized for directing and performing in Samsaradalli Sarigama, a play that was staged more than 1,000 times. He also made significant contributions to television, directing numerous episodes of various soap operas and serving as a jury member on the popular reality show Comedy Khiladigalu Championship on Zee Kannada.

Sarigama Viji was married and is survived by his son. His contributions to the Kannada entertainment industry, spanning decades, leave an enduring legacy cherished by fans and peers alike.