DR VISHNU MEMORIAL DEMOLISHED
The demolition of the Dr. Vishnuvardhan memorial site at Abhiman Studio, Bengaluru, is indeed a deeply emotional and controversial event that has stirred significant sadness and disappointment across the Kannada cinema industry and among millions of fans of the legendary actor.
Dr. Vishnuvardhan, fondly known as “Sahasa Simha,” was not just a cinematic icon but a cultural figure who left a profound impact on Kannada film history. The place where he was cremated on December 31, 2009, held deep sentimental value. Many fans believed it should have been preserved as a heritage site or memorial in his honor.
The cremation site was located within the premises of Abhiman Studio in Uttarahalli, Bengaluru, which belongs to the family of veteran actor T.N. Balakrishna.
At the time of cremation, the then CM H.D. Kumaraswamy had sanctioned 2 acres of land from the studio premises for a memorial.
Despite efforts by the Karnataka government, including an offer of ₹2 crore compensation, the Balakrishna family refused to transfer ownership.
As a result, Dr. Bharathi Vishnuvardhana moved the urn and constructed a full-fledged Dr. Vishnuvardhan Memorial on 2.75 acres in Haalaalu near Mysuru, inaugurated in 2020 by former CM Basavaraj Bommai.
Now, after a High Court ruling in favor of the Balakrishna family, the cremation site has been demolished, causing immense grief among fans.
Prominent figures like Dhruva Sarja, Anirudh (Dr. Vishnuvardhan’s son-in-law), and Vishnu Sene activists have voiced their anguish and vowed to urge the government for intervention.
For fans, this isn’t just about land or legal battles — it’s about preserving a sacred place tied to the memory of a beloved figure. The demolition feels like an erasure of history, especially for those in Bengaluru, who hoped for a permanent monument at the cremation site.
Cinema personalities and fan groups have united and are planning to petition the government once more to either:
- Reacquire the original cremation land, or
- Establish a symbolic memorial or plaque at the site, even if ownership remains with Balakrishna’s family.
Public support, peaceful demonstrations, and legal appeals may follow in the coming weeks.