'Kantara Chapter 1' Actor, Rakesh Poojary Passed Away At 33, Collapsed During A Wedding Ceremony

Rakesh Poojari was a well-known actor in the Kannada and Tulu industry. He made his debut with Whisky Is Risky in 2014 and rose to prominence as the winner of Comedy Khiladigalu 3. The actor was recently shooting for Kantara Chapter 1 when a tragedy hit his fans, and he passed away unexpectedly. 

Rakesh Poojari dies due to cardiac arrest at 33

The actor, Rakesh Poojari, was not of age and had been rising in the entertainment industry. However, on May 12, 2025, he suffered a heart attack and passed away. The actor had travelled to the Udupi district for a wedding ceremony when the tragedy struck. According to a report by India Today, Rakesh collapsed past midnight and unfortunately died before there could be any medical interference. 

Rakesh Poojari was attending a wedding ceremony

Rakesh Poojari was attending a wedding ceremony and had also shared a story from the celebration on his official Instagram handle. He also posted a birthday wish for his sister. However, hours later, the news of his passing broke out, which left his fans stunned. Both of these last stories on Instagram have gone viral. Another report by Deccan Herald revealed that Rakesh Poojari was at his friend's residence in Miyar. It was further shared that he was talking to his friend when he suddenly collapsed. While he was rushed to the hospital soon after, he was declared dead upon reaching the medical facility. The cause of his death is suspected to be a cardiac arrest.

A police case has been filed regarding the unnatural death of Rakesh Poojari

It is also being reported that a case has been filed at Karkala Town Police Station. The report was registered as a case of unnatural death. However, no further confirmation or updates have been shared about the same. Reacting to the news of his demise, a judge from Comedy Khiladigalu, Rakshitha wrote on social media:

"The ever-smiling Rakesha…my fav Rakesha..the sweetest kindest loving person… Namma Rakesha…will miss you mange."

Rakesh Poojary had finished shooting for Kantara: Chapter 1 hours before his passing

Another report suggested that the actor who was set to star in Kantara: Chapter 1 had only finished shooting for the film on May 11, 2025. It was revealed that Rakesh played an important role in the film, and his portion in the film was completed before he left for the wedding ceremony. It was also shared that the actor had complained of fatigue before collapsing. 

More about Rakesh Poojary

Rakesh Poojary became a household name in Karnataka after he won the show, Comedy Khiladigalu 3 in 2020. He further rose to fame with his stint in a Tulu reality show called Kadale Bajil in 2014. Rakesh also featured in some Kannada and Tulu films like Ammer Police, Umil, etc. He was among the rising stars in the entertainment industry, and his passing has left his fans and loved ones exceedingly saddened.

Team BollywoodShaadis extends our heartfelt condolences to Rakesh Poojary's family and friends.

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