Well-known actor Kala Thapasvi Rajesh passed away in the early hours of Saturday. He was 89 years and was suffering from kidney failure, and died due to old-age-related issues. He was admitted to a private hospital, where he breathed his last.
Rajesh was born on April 15, 1932, his real name was Munichowdappa. Since childhood, he was drawn to the theatre so much so, he would bunk classes to be part of plays staged by Sudarshan Nataka Mandali. He considered MK Thyagaraja Bhagavathar his role model. In his theatre days, he came to be known as Vidyasagar. Having worked as a typist, he formed his drama troupe called Sakti Nataka Mandali. His first screen appearance was for the film, Veera Sankalpa, offered by filmmaker Hunsur Krishnamurthy. The actor marked his debut as a lead hero, in Namma Uru, and since then, he was known by the screen name Rajesh.
One of the versatile actors of Sandalwood, he has worked in over 150 films, in a career spanning over 45 years. Rajesh has been awarded a Doctorate, from Karnataka University, Dharwad for his contributions to theatre and films.
Rajesh is the father of Asha Rani, wife of south Indian actor, Arjun Sarja.