Slew of events in Bangalore on Vishnuvardhan death anniversary

A year after his death, the city prepares to commemorate the death anniversary of the Phoenix of Kannada cinema — Vishnuvardhan. The veteran actor died of a massive heart attack on December 30, 2009.

To make the legend’s first death anniversary a memorable one for both his family and fans, there will be a procession attended by his near and dear ones, from National College, Basavangudi to Abhimaan Studio. Bharathi Vishnuvardhan, wife of the late actor, will inaugurate the procession by releasing 10,000 balloons into the air.

Keeping alive the compassion Vishnuvardhan had for the needy, a mega health check-up camp would be organised by Vishnuvardhan Bharathi (Vibha) Charitable Trust.

The programme includes heart check up, with follow up and surgery (if required), and dental and eye check up. Facilities for blood donation and eye-pledging have been arranged for.

The blood donation camp is expected to be the biggest in Bangalore with at least 2,000 donors slated to take part in the event. It will begin at 9.30 am and will go on till 2 pm.

Rotary International, Halappa Foundation, Manipal Hospital, Shekar Nethralaya, Unity Helpline Multi Speciality Hospital and Victoria Hospital will participate in the event. At least 25 doctors will be available at the venue along with the nursing and technical support team.

Speaking at a press conference, Bharathi Vishnuvardhan requested people with health problems to make use of the facilities. “Jana Sevaye Janardhana Seve, (Service to people is service to God)” she said, emphasising that the programme was being organised with service of the people in mind.

Even a year after Vishnuvardhan’s death, the government is yet to begin work on the proposed memorial.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony, which was supposed to be held on Wednesday, has been postponed to mid-January.