Srinath is more than just ‘king of romance’

A t the third edition of the Prajavani Kannada Cine Sammana held last week, veteran Kannada actor Srinath and popularly known by the title ‘Pranayaraja’ was awarded the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’. 

The most fascinating careers in entertainment are not those that follow a predetermined path but those that unfold unpredictably, defying conventions and expectations. Such was the journey of Srinath, an actor whose achievements were as surprising as they were extraordinary. From humble beginnings to becoming one of the most respected figures in cinema and television, his career was a testament to talent, resilience, and the sheer unpredictability of artistic success.

The actor enriched the Karnataka’s cultural scene and effortlessly transcended boundaries moving from theatre to films, and television while embodying diverse roles — character roles, a menacing villain, or a charismatic lead. 

Narayana Swamy (the actor’s original name) was born on December 28, 1943 to Ramaswamy Shastri and Lalita. He grew up with his brother C R Simha, a well known amateur theatre artiste and developed love for acting. He began his acting career by performing in amateur plays. He also practiced cinematography in Occupational Institute in Bengaluru. He entered films with a small role in the Rajkumar-starrer ‘Lagna Pathrike’ (1967). He made his debut in the 1969 film ‘Madhura Milana’. He then adopted the screen name Srinath.

He the went on to play the hero in many films including ‘Bhale Kiladi’, ‘Anireekshita’, ‘Ranga Mahal Rahasya’, and ‘Anugraha’. In spite of the tremendous success of ‘Ranga Mahal Rahasya’, for some strange reason Srinath did not get many lead role offers. He switched to playing supporting roles in ‘Tande Makkalu’, ‘Sharapanjara’, ‘Sri Krishna Rukmini Satyabhama’, ‘Bangarada Manushya’, ‘Devaru Kotta Tangi’, ‘Mooruvare Vajragalu’, ‘Mayura’ and ‘Bhale Hucha’. In ‘Bhale Hucha’, portrayed a menacing villain.

While oscillating between character roles, Srinath was picked by Puttanna Kanagal to play the protagonist in ‘Shubhamangala’ (1975). This helped him find his footing again as a lead actor. From then on it was tremendous journey of success and fame. Very soon he became the most sought after actor for not only the directors of Kannada films but also directors from across industries who made films in Kannada. He acted in three more films of Puttanna (‘Dharma sere’, ‘Manasa Sarovara’ and ‘Dharani Mandala Madhydolage’). He also worked with K Balachandr, K S Prakash Rao, C V Sridhar, and Amrutham.

From ‘Shubhamangala’ to ‘Maanasaveene’ (1987), Srinath acted in 64 films as the lead (with a few exceptions) and achieved 90 per cent success. His hit onscreen heroine was Manjula. The pair guaranteed box office returns and became one of the most popular pairs on screen.

‘Baduku Bangaravayitu’ (1976) was their first film. The pair starred in a series of successful films like ‘Besuge’, ‘Pattanakke Banda Patniyaru’, ‘Muyyige Muyyi’, ‘Pakka Kalla’, ‘Pint Parimala’, ‘Haddina Kannu’ and ‘Shikari’. From 1987 he moved to character roles and continues to be active till date.

Srinath also excelled in comic roles in such films as ‘Pattanakke Banda Patniyaru’, ‘Baduku Bangaravaytu’ and ‘Tande Makkalu’. As an actor, he had a steady style of acting, and he would do his role to perfection. He will not dominate the proceedings but when called upon, will deliver what is needed from him. His restrained acting in Shikari is a fine example of his method of acting. One can clearly see that he was a professional to the core.

Besides being a gentleman, never courting any controversies, Srinath also lent a hand to many people. When the film ‘Mugda Manava’ (1977) bombed at the box office, he acted in another project of the producer free of cost. He produced ‘Manasa Sarovara’ (1982) for Puttanna when the late director was going through a rough phase.

In an industry where egos often clash and opportunism prevails, he stood out for his humility and integrity. He mentored newcomers, supported colleagues in times of need, and never compromised his principles for fame. His reputation as a kind-hearted yet professional artiste earned him respect across generations.