Senior Kannada director S Umesh passes away at 79 after battling kidney failure

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Trigger warning: This article contains mention of an individual’s death.

Umesh, a well-respected Kannada movie director who was famous for creating films such as Avale Nanna Hendthi, Annayya Thammayya, and numerous others, has sadly passed away at the age of 79. Today, the moving farewell ceremony for this legendary filmmaker will take place at the Banashankari Crematorium in Bengaluru.

It appears that S. Umesh passed away due to complications from kidney failure and other long-term health issues he had been battling. Tragically, it seems he contracted these illnesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and experienced significant financial struggles during that time.

According to Banglore Times and Filmibeat reports, doctors have been managing his condition with medication instead of dialysis, even as his kidney failure worsens. S. Umesh himself mentioned that undergoing dialysis would complicate matters for him, and further stated that older and experienced artists in the film industry are often undervalued.

Last year, I found myself in a challenging situation, much like a filmmaker I know. He bravely appealed for financial aid, sharing that he was struggling physically due to kidney issues. What made his story even more poignant was the revelation that his treatment included an injection every five days, with each shot setting him back ₹2,000. This is a testament to the hidden costs and hardships people often face when dealing with health issues.

I’ve shared that reports suggest Manohar Naidu and Lahari Velu from Lahari Music Company contacted me following my request, proposing a sum of ₹1 lakh for my medical expenses. Regrettably, this figure fell far short of meeting the significant financial requirements I faced as a director in my final days.

In 1974, S. Umesh began his career in films as an assistant director and scriptwriter. Fast forward to 1988, he stepped into the role of a director with the movie “Avale Nanna Hendthi,” starring Kashinath and Bhavya in the main roles. This film was incredibly successful upon its release and was later remade into Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi versions. S. Umesh also directed the Tamil adaptation of the film, while Aamir Khan took on the lead role in the Hindi version.

Throughout a span of 48 years in his filmmaking career, S. Umesh delved into movie production as well, producing three films, with Banni Ondsala Nodi being one of them. This movie starred Dhirendra Gopal, Vinod Raj, and others in significant roles. Surprisingly, despite the film’s success, this seasoned director openly admitted his struggles in marketing it effectively.

During this difficult time, TopMob extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

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2025-02-21 15:38