Karnataka govt allows entry of fans to Puneeth’s samadhi

Bengaluru: Kannada superstar Puneeth Rajkumar’s family conducted ‘Haalu-Tuppa’ ceremony (offering of milk and ghee to grave) at Kanteerava Studio premises where his mortal remains were laid to rest on Tuesday.

Though, prohibition orders are in place, thousands of his fans surrounded the stadium premises and urged that they should be allowed inside to pay respects to their favourite star. Owing to the pressure, the entry was allowed.

Raghavendra Rajkumar, Puneeth’s elder brother said that, his younger brother belonged to masses and since the family worshipping is done, they can visit his grave anytime, he said.

Puneeth’s wife Ashwini, daughters Dhriti and Vandana performed puja along with other members of the family.

Meanwhile, Telugu super star Akkineni Nagarjuna visited the residence of Puneeth Rajkumar and met his family members. “It’s very shocking and heartbreaking development. It is not possible for us to believe what happened. I am speechless and don’t know what to say to his family members,” he said.

“All are talking about only Puneeth Rajkumar’s virtues on how he involved into social service, how he encouraged talent. I don’t understand how God just took him away. My deepest condolences to his family, people of Karnataka and his fans. My heart goes out to him,” he said.