Mumbai: Renowned Kannada actor-producer Dileep Raj passed away in the early hours of Wednesday after suffering a massive heart attack at his residence. He was rushed to Apollo Hospital in Kumaraswamy Layout, but doctors were unable to revive him, according to reports. He was 47.

Dileep Raj, born in Bengaluru, began his film career as a lead actor with Boy Friend (2005) and went on to appear in over 24 films. He gained major recognition with Milana (2007) alongside Puneeth Rajkumar, where he played an antagonist. His notable works also include U Turn (2016), Krishna Leela, Tony, Barfi, Orchestra Mysuru, and Ambi Ning Vayassaytho.

Beyond films, he was a prominent television face, best known for Zee Kannada’s Hitler Kalyana. His early TV journey began with Kambada Mane and Janani, where he co-starred with veteran actress Bharathi Vishnuvardhan.

He later featured in serials including Ardha Satya, Rangoli, Mangalya, Malebillu, Preetigaagi, Rathasapthami, and Kumkuma Bhagya. He also worked in theatre groups Nataranga and Drishti and lent his voice in Aa Dinagalu for Chetan Kumar. He produced TV content under DR Creations.

His last Instagram post, dated January 2025, related to Nimma Vasthugalige Neeve Javaabdaararu, has gone viral. His final film appearance will be in Love Mocktail 3, released on March 19, 2026, directed by Darling Krishna, featuring an ensemble cast and music by Nakul Abhyankar.

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Following his demise, condolences poured in from across the Kannada film and television industry.

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