April 24 marks Rajkumar’s 91st birth anniversary and like every year, his fans remembered him with a ceremony at the Kanteerava Studio.
Memorial events were also held at Ravindra Kalakshetra and district centres across the state.
Metrolife got in touch with Vinay Rajkumar, the late actor’s grandson, and asked him to list his favourites among Rajkumar’s films and songs.
Top five songs
Naaniruvude Nimagaagi
“This rousing number is from ‘Mayura’. I get goosebumps every time I listen to this song.”
Rajkumar’s grandson.
Yaare Koogadali
“This energetic song marks Rajkumar’s singing debut. The film ‘Sampathige Savaal’ has many other beautiful songs.” Lyrics: Chi Udayashankar. Music: G K Venkatesh.
Huttidare Kannada Nadalli Hutta Beku
The hit film ‘Aakasmika’ features this hugely popular song. It describes the beauty of Karnataka and Kannada. Every Kannadiga is proud of this song.” Music and lyrics: Hamsalekha.
Nanna Neenu Gellalaare
“This duet from ‘Nee Nanna Gellalare’ is a playful fight between a couple -- I would say it is the first of its kind in Indian cinema.” Music: Ilaiyaraja.
I love you
“From the film ‘Nee Nanna Gellalare’, this song makes it to the Top 5 as it’s one of the best romantic songs till date.”
Top 5 films
Mayura (1975)
“This historical film directed by Vijay features Rajkumar is the role of a prince. I like the film’s screenplay. Every character in the film gets importance. Moreover, the film traces the life of a common man as he ascends to the throne.”
Bangaarada Manushya (1972)
“The social drama was directed by Siddalingaiah. Starring Rajkumar and Bharati in lead roles, it broke away from conventional movie making, and inspired many young people to return to their roots. I personally know people who have said this to me.”
Bhakta Prahlada (1983)
“Directed by Vijay, this mythological had Rajkumar and Saritha in the lead. It was also Rajkumar’s first negative role. The film has a special place as it brings out the beautiful pairing of Rajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar. Be it the screenplay, the cinematography.. the film was at its best.”
Bhakta Kumbara (1974)
“The Hunsur Krishnamurthy’s directorial starred Rajkumar and Leelavathi in the lead. It features the life of a potter who turned into a saint and lost his child as it fumbled under his feet while he was immersed in chanting the name of God. The film shows the amount of devotion he possessed. I think Rajkumar was at his best in this film.”
Kaviratna Kalidasa (1983)
“This historical drama traces the life of celebrated Sanskrit playwright Kalidasa. Written and directed by Renuka Sharma, the film features Rajkumar and Jaya Pradha in prominent roles. I like the film for its cinematography. Another aspect I like is the combination of Rajkumar and Jaya Pradha. They are by far the best on-screen couple. I also its songs (Manikya veenam, Sadaa kannali pranayada kavite haadide, Albyaad kane sumkire and Belli mooditu).”