Vaishali Kasaravalli passes away

She is survived by her husband Girish Kasaravalli, film-maker, daughter Ananya and son Apoorva. 

The actress, who would have turned 60 in December, was suffering from chronic diabetes, liver damage and was undergoing dialysis for renal malfunctioning.

Originally a theatre person, Vaishali began her career in amateur Kannada theatre and worked with B V Karanth. She has acted in more than 100 Kannada films and has directed two Kannada serials. 

Her Kannada blockbusters of the early 80's includes Yeradu Kanasu, Henne Ninage Yenu Bandhana and Professor Huchchuraya. Her other movies are America! America!, Yarigu Helbedi, Gowri Ganesha, Ganeshana Maduve, Aakramana, Kittu Puttu, Angaiyalli Apsare, Krowrya, Hombisilu, Swami, Thabarana Kathe, Anukulakobha Ganda, Kshrera Sagara, Asegobba Mesegobba, Mooru Daarigalu, Maha Dasohi Sharana Basava, Chandramukhi Pranasakhi, Shankar Guru, Phalitamsha, No 73, Shanthi Nivasa and Nighatha.

She has also directed Kannada serial ‘Mudala Mane’ whose Kannada dialogues with their rich north Karnataka flavour made it a viewer favourite. The serial received the award for the best narration and gained her people's acceptance and popularity. ‘Muthina Thorana', another serial directed by her is still being aired by a Kannada TV channel.

Vaishali received the National Award for Best Costume for the film ‘Thayi Saheba’. She bagged the State award for her performance in ‘Aakramana’. She was also the recipient of the Rajyostava Award for here contribution to visual media.

Chief Minister Yeddyurappa has mourned the death of Vaishali Kasaravalli. In his condolence message, Yeddyurappa said the state had “lost a versatile artiste and director”. The multi-faceted artiste exhibited her talent as supporting actor and director of tv serials, he said.