Parvathamma was force behind Raj's success

Star maker: An ace producer, she launched many artistes, technicians

Paravathmma Rajkumar (78), who died on Wednesday, not only steered her thespian-husband Rajkumar's career but also contributed immensely to the Kannada film industry's growth.

She was Amma (mother) not just to her movie-star children, but also to many in the industry.

Rajkumar debuted in 1962 and in the decades that followed, steadily grew from actor to Kannada icon. He gravitated towards many popular movements, including the one in the 1980s demanding primacy for Kannada in primary education.

Through all this, it fell upon Parvathamma to manage his finances, run the household, and steady the family through dizzying ups and downs. In the late 70s, she launched a production house, producing a string of hits starring Rajkumar.

Witnessing the vagaries of the glamour business, Parvathamma learnt how to run a tight ship. Her productions were neatly scripted, well planned and wrapped up in time. Some films went on to become blockbuster hits, and most brought in profits.

Launch of sons

Parvathamma launched her three sons – Shivarajkumar, Raghavendra Rajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar – and several heroines, such as Jayamala (Giri Kanye) and Ramya (Abhi), in the Kannada film industry.

In a career spanning more than four decades, Parvathamma produced and distributed 80 films under two banners: Vajreshwari Combines and Poornima Enterprises.

She virtually ruled the industry from the late 1970s till a few years ago, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. When Rajkumar died in 2006, she was called upon to continue his legacy and stand by the causes he had espoused (for instance, he had been against dubbing in Kannada).

The film fraternity looked up to her in times of difficulty. Though she never held any official position in the trade bodies, they took no decision that went against her wishes.

Two of her sons, Shivarajkumar and Puneeth, continue to deliver a steady stream of popular films, while another, Raghavendra, is active on the production front.

Landmark films

As a producer, Parvathamma gave landmark movies such as  Giri Kanye, Shankar Guru, Thayige Thakka Maga, Ravichandra, Havina Hede, Hosa Belaku, Haalu Jenu, Chalisuva Modagalu, Kavirathna Kalidasa, Bhaktha Prahlada, Dhruvathare, Ondhu Muthina Kathe, Bettada Huvu, Devatha Manushya, Jeevana Chaitra, Akasmika, Shabdavedi, Om, and Janumada Jodi.

Married on June 25, 1953, when she was just 13, Parvathmma, born in Saligrama in K R Nagar taluk in Mysuru district, was a quick learner. She not only picked up the nuances of film-making but also realised the importance of remaining grounded in show biz, where reigning stars could turn paupers in no time.

Rajkumar had more than once credited his success to Parvathamma's sacrifices. Several of her films won state and national awards, while she was honoured with the Rajyotsava award. The state also gave her a lifetime achievement award.

Woman power

In an industry dominated by men, it will not be easy for another Parvathamma to emerge. She not only commanded respect but also introduced several artistes, technicians and directors in her productions. Parvathamma was an institution in herself. The industry will never be the same without her.