A veteran director of Kannada cinema Tipatur Raghu passed away on Saturday morning. He had worked for over 40 films starting his career under still photographer Vrushabhendrayya. He was first co director of `Nagapooja` and later worked for nearly 40 films as assistant director.

Tipatur Raghu, a veteran director, died at the age of 83 because of age-old problems. He was not keeping well for the last four years. He used to come to the film functions in a wheelchair. He leaves behind wife , son and two daughters.

The first independent direction and production of Tipatur Raghu was `Urvashi’`. Later he directed Swarnamahal, Naaga Kaala Bhairava, Kalluveene Nudiyithu, Aakrosha, Benki Birugali and Halliya Surasuraru.

Tiptur Raghu headed the Vijaya Film institute as principal; he was also active in the KANFIDA. Tipatur Raghu`s son Naveen Raghu recently turned hero from Kannada film `Bhrame`.