When the entire Kannada film industry was in deep shock after the sudden demise of thespian Dr Rajkumar, it was Ambareesh who donned the role of the leader and guided the grief-stricken industry on its new path.
His humble and friendly stature not only provided the industry with much-required comfort but also made him the troubleshooter of Sandalwood. Until his last days, Ambareesh lived up to this image of his and resolved issues amicably without letting them come in the way of the industry’s business.
It was common for the Sandalwood to approach Ambareesh in its distress times regardless of the problem. An undisputed captain of the industry, Ambareesh stood by all and resolved the crisis.
Acknowledging his experience and stature, the Sandalwood too consulted him often whenever it had to decide on a major issue. Be it the burgeoning industry troubles or the personal issues of the artistes, Ambareesh was quick to address them on any day. In fact the who’s who of Sandalwood descend on his house in JP Nagar and seek suggestions on a wide range of industry-related issues.
Despite his active role and busy schedule in the state politics, Ambareesh never let the industry issue go of his hand and always made time for them. Even though he was elected as the president of the Artistes’ Association, he also batted for producers when they were in distress. Respecting his decision, none in the industry took any objections to his decision or judgement. More so that the industry leaders were afraid of facing his wrath in case of indifference.
Be it Ramya’s remuneration controversy, industry protesting against the government, putting up a protest against the dubbing, increased interference of small screen, kidnap of Dr Rajkumar and the death of his close friend Vishnuvardhan, Ambareesh stood like a pillar guiding the industry on the righteous path.
However, the only issue that went beyond his jurisdiction was the recent #MeToo controversy between Sruthi Hariharan and Arjun Sarja. When both of them refused to resolve the issue at the discussion table, Ambareesh had quipped in his usual tone, “I am not the supreme here. I am also aged now.”