Theatre world mourns Raju Talikoti

Paying rich tributes to veteran theatre and film actor Raju Talikoti, theatre artistes and cultural figures remembered him as the “Sultan of North Karnataka’s rustic wit” whose lively performances and spontaneous humour captivated audiences across the region.

At a Ranga Namana (theatrical tribute) organised by Rangayana, Kalaburagi, the institution’s director Sujatha Jangamashetti recalled Talikoti (born Rajesab Muktumasab Talikoti) as “a true representative of North Karnataka’s earthy dialect and spirit”.

“We were appointed directors of different Rangayanas at the same time. Despite initial criticism, he remained cheerful and shared his dreams for Dharwad Rangayana with infectious enthusiasm. His death is an irreparable loss to Kannada professional theatre,” she said.

Talikoti, who passed away on Monday following a heart attack he suffered on Sunday night during shooting, rose from humble beginnings.

A Class IV dropout and former truck driver, he went on to become a household name through company dramas such as Kaliyugada Kuduka.

Joint Director, Department of Kannada and Culture, Basavaraj Hoogar remembered him as an actor who could enthrall audiences with his natural acting despite the limitations of commercial theatre. “He brought theatre closer to common people,” he said.

The former Rangayana Director Prabhakar Joshi said that the passing of such a creative mind has left a deep void in Kannada theatre.

“Being appointed Director of Dharwad Rangayana was a remarkable achievement for someone who began in company drama,” he noted.

Bidar-based theatre artist Vijaykumar Sone observed that hundreds earned their livelihood through Talikoti’s theatre company. “Lakhs have paid tributes online, showing how deeply he was loved,” he said.

Senior Mysuru Rangayana artiste Hulugappa Kattimani described him as “a man with a large heart and a hero for the working class”.

The event concluded with a rendition of the Ranga Geethe by Rangayana artistes in memory of the late actor.