Renowned Kannada Actor Aparna Vastarey Passes Away at 57

Popular Kannada actor and television presenter Aparna Vastarey passed away at 57 after battling lung cancer for two years. Known for her perfect Kannada diction, she had a strong fan base and was a prominent figure in government events and TV shows. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his condolences.

Popular Kannada actor, television presenter, and former radio jockey Aparna Vastarey, 57, passed away on Thursday night, as confirmed by sources close to her.

Vastarey had been battling lung cancer for the past two years, according to her husband Nagaraj Vastarey. She was well-known for her work as a presenter on DD Chandana and had anchored numerous government programs and events, gaining a strong fan base for her impeccable Kannada diction.

One of her notable achievements was in 1998 when she set a record by presenting shows for eight hours straight during Diwali celebrations. Vastarey made her film debut in 1984 with Puttanna Kanagal's last movie, 'Masanada Hoovu,' and appeared in several Kannada TV shows. She was also the voice of Bengaluru Metro announcements and participated in the Kannada reality television show Bigg Boss. Her role as 'Varalakshmi' in the comedy show 'Majaa Talkies' was particularly appreciated.

Several notable personalities from the film, television, literary, and political spheres, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, have expressed their condolences. ''Saddened to hear the news of the death of actress and famous presenter Aparna. A multifaceted talent who was a household name in the state, by presenting in the Kannada language very elegantly in the programmes of major Kannada channels and government functions, has left us very soon,'' Siddaramaiah posted on X.

(With inputs from agencies.)