Vishnuvardhan, a darling of his fans and co-artistes

A versatile actor, Vishnuvardhan, who passed away today, was known for his amiable nature and warm-hearted relations with fellow artistes. The actor also has a huge fan following.

In a career spanning about four decades, Vishunvardhan, whose real name was Sampathkumar, was born into a family of artistes on September 18, 1950. His father HL Narayana Rao, was an artist and a scriptwriter.

He was christened 'Vishnuvardhan' after his debut in the film world through the Girish Karnad-directed Vamshavruksha in 1972.

A towering star of the Kannada celluloid world, Vishnuvardhan attained stardom through his role Ramachari, in Nagarahaavu, a film directed by one of Kannada film land's top directors, Puttanna Kanagal, in 1973. The film also won him the best actor award.

Vishnuvardhan, who has excelled in various roles including as comedian and village chieftan in Sahyadriya Simha, was affectionately given the title of "Sahasa Simha" (a valorous lion) by his fans.

Besides acting in 197 Kannada films, Vishnuvardhan had acted in other languagues too like Viduthalai and Sri Raghavendra in Tamil and Kauravar in Malayalam with Mammootty.

He is also a singer, and had been singing for albums of late.

Among his blockbusters were Yajamana, a remake of a Tamil movie.

In recognition of his contribution to the film industry, Bangalore University conferred an honorary doctorate on Vishnuvardhan in 2005.

Performing varied roles and enthralling his fans for 37 years, Vishnuvardhan's death has left a void in the Kannada film industry.