Bengaluru: – Sandalwood actor Santhosh Balaraj, known for his intense roles in Kannada cinema, passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 34. He breathed his last at 9:30 AM at Apollo Hospital, Kumaraswamy Layout, Bengaluru, following serious liver and kidney-related complications that resulted in severe jaundice.
Santhosh had been under intensive care since last month after being hospitalised for jaundice. Though he initially showed improvement, his health deteriorated rapidly, and he eventually slipped into a coma. Despite continued ICU treatment, multiple organ failure led to his untimely death.
Son of late producer Anekal Balaraj, Santhosh was introduced to films by his father with the 2009 action drama Kempa. He later gained recognition for his gripping performances in Ganapa, Kariya 2, Berkeley, Satya, and Kempa. His rugged on-screen presence and portrayal of gritty, action-packed characters won him a loyal fan base.
His breakthrough role in Ganapa brought critical acclaim, while Kariya 2, a sequel to his father’s hit production Kariya (2003), solidified his place in Sandalwood. Directed by Prabhu Srinivas, Kariya 2 showcased his ability to carry high-voltage action with emotional depth.
Santhosh’s death marks another tragedy for the family, coming just three years after the passing of his father Anekal Balaraj, who died in a road accident in 2022.
His contribution to Kannada cinema will be fondly remembered.