Kannada producer Ramu succumbs to Covid-19 

Well-known Kannada producer and distributor, and husband of actor Malashree, Ramu passed away this evening due to Coronavirus. He had tested positive for Covid-19 and was admitted to Ramaiah Hospital four days ago. He was 52 years old and is survived by his wife, son and daughter.

Ramu, made his debut as a producer with Golibar in 1993, and bankrolled over 40 films, including blockbusters like Lockup Death, AK47, Kalasipalya, Circle Inspector, Simahada Mari, Hollywood and Auto Shankar. He also distributed a lot of south Indian films through his distribution company, Ramu Enterprises. He was popularly known as 'Koti Ramu' as he was one of the first producers to invest crores on big-budget films. Ramu also produced a handful of female-centric films, mostly starring his wife, Malashree.

His last production 99, starring Ganesh and Bhavana, was released in 2019. The producer was gearing up to release his next venture, Arjun Gowda, starring Prajwal Devaraj and directed by Lucky Shankar.

Director Lucky Shankar said, "This is definitely unfortunate. Even after getting intensive treatment, he wasn't saved. I was in constant touch with him for the film, and I would often enquire about his health. He was in the hospital for the last three days and was recovering. His death was unexpected."

Actor Prajwal had met the producer at the recent press meet and he tells us that if not for the pandemic, Ramu had plans to release Arjun Gowda around this time. "Ramu's first film as a producer was Golibar, starring my father (Devaraj), and his last film happens to be mine. His passing is unfortunate and a huge loss to the Kannada industry." 

People from the film fraternity are mourning the producer's loss. Here are a few reactions from Twitter:

One of the most passionate Movie Producers of KFI, Ramu Sir is no more. RIP

My deepest condolence on the passing away of Ramu sir. Sending love & strength to his family and dear ones to cope with the loss!