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[baldguy]

Kannada demigod Rajkumar no more

BANGALORE: "I want to dance with you again. But my knee should permit it." Year after year, this was the line with which Rajkumar, the colossus of Kannada film world, consoled his fans.

But on Wednesday, there was no consoling the city when, 12 days short of his 77th birthday, the man called Kannadada Kanmani (Kannada's darling), Natasaarvabhouma (king among actors) and Annavru (elder brother) - Rajkumar - passed away, following a cardiac arrest.

more:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1488063.cms

Grief stricken Rajkumar fans indulge in violence

Bangalore, April 13 (PTI): Grief-stricken fans of Kannada thespian Dr.Rajkumar, who died here on Wednesday, went on the rampage pelting stones and torching vehicles in protest against delay in arrival of his body at a stadium, forcing the police to use tear gas and canes to control the crowd.

Several persons, including policemen, were injured in the incidents, they said.

Pouring out their anger over delay in arrival of the mortal remains of the matinee idol at the Kanteerava Stadium, thousands of people, who had gathered to get a glimpse of their "annavaru" (elder brother) turned unruly, raised slogans and hurled stones.

more:
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200604130321.htm

[Fleshdancer]

1. and I thought America was celebrity crazed!

I can't imagine torching cars over the death of a movie star...or anyone else for that matter. :wow:

[Starbucks Anarchist]

3. Take it from an Indian.

India's film industry is HUGE. It's the biggest in the world (800+ movies/year), and represents a sort of social equilibrium where all types of people can partake in the same entertainment.

As for Raj Kumar, he was the Indian equivalent of Jimmy Stewart, Cary Grant and Humphrey Bogart combined -- not that that excuses rioting, ;) but he was very big throughout the country.

BTW, I think we have the same birthday -- this Saturday, right? :D

[baldguy]

2. k

just 'cause