Beloved Kannada actor and seasoned politician, K Shivaram, passed away at the age of 70 in Bengaluru. The actor, known for his memorable roles in films like “Baa Nalle Madhuchandrake” and “Tiger,” breathed his last after a valiant battle with various health issues at a private hospital in the city.
Survived by his wife and daughter, K Shivaram’s demise has left a void in the hearts of many who cherished his contributions to the Kannada film industry and politics alike. His last rites are scheduled to take place today, March 1st, as friends, family, and fans bid a tearful farewell to the icon.
Born on April 6, 1953, in Uragalli, Ramanagara District, K Shivaram’s journey was one of resilience and dedication. Raised by his father, the late S. Kempaiah, a distinguished drama master, and his mother, Chikkaboramma, he pursued his education with zeal, completing his schooling in his village before moving to Bangalore for higher studies.
In 1972, immediately after finishing high school, he embarked on a career path that would define his life’s trajectory. Joining the Crime Investigation Department as a police reporter in May 1973, he displayed a knack for excellence, eventually earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from V. V. Puram Evening College of Arts & Commerce.
Undeterred by challenges, K Shivaram continued his academic pursuits, obtaining a Master of Arts in History through correspondence from the University of Mysore in 1982. His determination culminated in significant achievements, including clearing the Karnataka Administrative Service exam in 1985, where he secured the first rank among the Scheduled Caste community.
His dedication and hard work bore fruit when he was selected as Deputy Superintendent of Police in 1985, followed by his appointment as Assistant Commissioner of Police in 1986. Despite these accomplishments, K Shivaram’s aspirations soared higher, as he realized his childhood dream by clearing the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS) exam, conducted by the UPSC, making history as the first person to achieve this feat in the Kannada language.
Beyond his illustrious career in the civil services, K Shivaram ventured into politics, aligning himself with various parties throughout his journey. From the Indian National Congress to the Janata Dal (Secular) and later the Bharatiya Janata Party, his commitment to public service remained unwavering, leaving an indelible mark on Karnataka’s political landscape.