Renowned art director-turned-actor Dinesh Mangaluru, best known for his memorable role as Shetty in KGF, passed away early Monday morning following a brain stroke. He had been undergoing treatment for the past month at Surgeon Hospital in Kundapura.
Hailing from Kota in Saligrama, the 62-year-old was deeply inspired by theatre from a young age. His passion for the arts led him to Bengaluru, where he joined the prestigious Adarsha Film Institute to pursue a formal education in filmmaking.
Although he began his career with the TS Nagabharana camp, it was the acclaimed film Chinnari Muttha that brought him into the limelight. He gained further recognition with the blockbuster Kannada film Janumada Jodi (1995), starring Dr. Shivarajkumar and Shilpa. Another significant milestone in his career was his work on Nagamandala, where he collaborated with celebrated art director Shashidhar Adapa.
Dinesh Mangaluru contributed to over fifty films as an art director, including Asphota, Nanjundi, Vishwa, Dalavayi, Chigurida Kanasu, Mathad Mathadu Mallige, and Shanthi Nivasa. Known for his humorous nature and quiet sensitivity, he remained a cherished figure in the theatre community. He maintained close ties with various theatre troupes and colleagues from Mangaluru, offering unwavering support during difficult times.
Though widely acclaimed for his work behind the scenes, Dinesh also delivered commendable performances on screen whenever the opportunity arose.
He is survived by his wife Bharathi and sons Pavan Surya and Sajjan. When entering the film industry from Senapura, Dinesh named his son Surya Siddanth—a touching tribute, as it is also the name of national award-winning actor Prakash Rai’s son, who passed away at a young age.
Dinesh Mangaluru’s mortal remains will arrive in Bengaluru this evening. The final rites will be conducted tomorrow morning at the Sumanahalli Crematorium, located next to the BMTC bus depot in Sumanahalli.