It has been four years since the untimely passing of Power Star Puneeth Rajkumar. His sudden demise, on October 29, 2021, at the age of 47, had plunged the entire state into mourning, yet his memory continues to glow with undimmed warmth and reverence. To millions, he remains Appu, not just a beloved actor, but a symbol of humility, compassion, and inspiration. Every day since his passing, fans have remembered him with unwavering love, while his family continues to uphold the legacy he built with heart and hard work.
On the occasion of his death anniversary, Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar offered prayers at Puneeth’s memorial in Kanteerava Studio, accompanied by Raghavendra Rajkumar and his sons Vinay Rajkumar and Yuvarajkumar. Shivarajkumar also visited the memorial later in the day, paying his heartfelt respects to his younger brother. The site, now a place of quiet strength and remembrance, once again witnessed moving tributes from fans and well-wishers who continue to hold Appu close to their hearts.
Puneeth’s final days remain etched in memory. On October 28, 2021, he attended the birthday celebration of his close friend and music composer Gurukiran, sharing moments of joy before returning home. The next morning, as his brother Shivarajkumar’s film Bajrangi 2, directed by Harsha, released to packed shows, Puneeth took to social media to wish the team success. A few hours later, he suffered a cardiac arrest and was rushed to the hospital, where he breathed his last around noon. The news spread swiftly, leaving Karnataka in collective grief that words could scarcely capture.
In the years that followed, PRK Productions has continued to carry forward his vision, producing films such as One Cut Two Cut, Family Pack, Man of the Match, Gandhada Gudi, Aachar & Co, O2, and Ekka. Some of these stories were personally chosen by Puneeth, while others were nurtured by Ashwini, ensuring that the banner continues to reflect his cinematic taste and spirit.
Standing at the forefront of his legacy, Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar continues to lead PRK Productions with the same grace and conviction that Puneeth embodied. Beyond cinema, she has extended his social and humanitarian works, keeping alive the kindness and humility that defined Appu’s life and character.
