Karnataka Chief Minister H Kumaraswamy on Sunday announced the last rites of politician and actor Ambareesh will be performed near Dr Rajkumar Smaraka at Kanteerava Studio, Bengaluru, with state honours. Meanwhile, the public will be allowed to pay tribute to Ambareesh on Sunday at Kanteerava Stadium. Also, as a mark of respect, the State government has declared an official mourning of three days.
This announcement comes after reports of confusion between fans and family members of Ambareesh over performing the last rites. Soon after his demise, fans had gathered outside Vikram Hospital, where Ambareesh breathed his last. While some fans wanted the final rites to be conducted in the late leader's hometown in Mandya, his family wanted the funeral to be held in Bengaluru. However, the CM on Sunday said that after consulting with Ambareesh's family as well as the film industry, it was decided that the funeral will be performed in Bengaluru.
The mortal remains of the politician-actor have been brought Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru for the public to pay the last respects to their leader. A posse of 2,000 police personnel have been deployed and traffic restrictions have been put in place as part of this.
CM HD Kumaraswamy, in consultation with the family and the film industry, has announced that the last rights of the departed leader and film star #Ambareesh will be conducted near Dr Rajkumar Smaraka at Kanteerava Studio, Bengaluru, with state honours on Monday(26-11-2018). pic.twitter.com/1tHmTKtymU
— CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) November 24, 2018
Several politicial leaders and actors are expected to arrive at the stadium to pay Ambareesh their last respects. Actor Yash and Rockline Venkatesh reached the stadium in the morning. Meanwhile, condolences continue to pour in. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences.
Shri Ambareesh will always be remembered for his memorable performances as an actor and extensive contribution to politics. He was a strong voice for Karnataka’s welfare, at the state and central level. Pained by his demise. Condolences to his family & admirers: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 25, 2018
Popularly known as the "rebel star", Ambareesh was admitted at Vikram Hospital for multiple ailments and was being treated at the intensive care unit. The 66-year-old leader died of a cardiac arrest. He served as a Union Minister of State in the UPA government, led by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.