Mysuru: Chamaraja MLA K Harishgowda Friday described actor Rajkumar as a “great soul” who brought immense honour and pride to the Kannada language and culture.Speaking after garlanding the statue at Dr Rajkumar Park near Mysuru Palace during the Jayanti celebrations organised by the district administration, the MLA said the actor’s contribution to the Gokak movement played a crucial role in securing the prominence and respect Kannada enjoys today. He said the commitment to the language extended beyond cinema into real-life activism, making him a symbol of cultural pride and inspiration.The MLA said the films were not merely a source of entertainment but carried strong moral values that helped shape society. He noted that the powerful dialogues and literary richness set a benchmark rarely matched in contemporary cinema, and that the roles portrayed reflected ideals audiences could relate to and emulate.Highlighting the actor’s versatility, Harishgowda said there was hardly any role the actor had not portrayed perfectly. He added that the melodious voice earned a special place in people’s hearts and that, even in an earlier era, the ability to render songs, including English numbers, showcased wide-ranging talent.Recalling the legacy, the MLA said the deep love for the mother tongue, discipline and simplicity continue to inspire. “He was not just an actor, but a cultural ambassador of Kannada,” he said, expressing hope that future generations would carry forward these values and ideals.
