It is not in making ‘Pushpaka Vimana’ silent movie in 1987 starring Kamal Hassan and Amla producer Shringar Nagaraj remained distinct even after 26 years he remained distinct in his death.
As we look back at the pages of History – Gauthama Budhdha, Hollywood actor Ingrid Bergman, literary giant William Shakespeare, freedom fighter Bipin Chandra Roy, Raphel an international painter – all breathed last on the day they took their birth.
Shringar Nagaraj joins to the list of such luminaries!
The day he was born on 16th of July he breathed last at the age of 74 years leaving lot of good feelings, good moments and charming hero of Kannada cinema Ramkumar who is son in law of Dr Rajakumar family. Shringar Nagaraj is ‘Beegaru’ to Dr Rajakumar family.
From the family of goldsmith Gangolli Ramashet Nagaraj found it tough from the Gold Control Act of Morarji Desai government in the Union switched from jewelry to films. He is an ardent photographer. Had good qualification of degree in Commerce and going was not bad for Nagaraj.
In Kannada cinema he came as an actor for his good looks and color. In over 30 films he was an actor. It was Sipayi Ramu in 1972 that gave him a break in acting department. Sipayi Ramu, Bangarada Manushya, Kesarina Kamala, Haalu Jenu, Chelisuva Modagalu, Shabdavedi, Ranganayaki, Katha Sangama
Shringar Nagaraj was the wedding cameraman of royal family of Mysore of Srikanta Datta Narasimha Raja Wodeyar.
It is ‘Pushpaka Vimana’ that sky rocket his popularity. The silent film directed by Singeetham Srinivas was magnificent in collection. The film also won President Gold Medal award. The film ran for 25 weeks in Bangalore and 100 days in Mumbai
Nagaraj was bestowed with Karnataka Rajyotsava Award in 1999, Film fare Award in 1989, Screen Award, Star and Style Award and International Houston Film Festival Award among others.
‘I have surrendered to age and not able to show participation in cinema making’ – Shringar Nagaraj said a few years ago.
May his soul rest in peace!