The legendary actor stayed well-connected with professional theatre and had over 100 films to his credit which he did between 1954-1979.
Published Jul 24, 2023 | 5:58 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 10, 2023 | 12:53 PM
Hasya Chakravarthy Narasimharaju. (Supplied)
The one and only ‘Hasya Chakravarthy’ (Emperor of Comedy) TR Narasimharaju ruled the Kannada film industry between 1954 and 1979.
He commanded it with “clean comedy” and “impeccable timing” which is crucial for any comedian.
Even as the Sandalwood kickstarts a year-long centenary celebration of the thespian, South First reports on some of the interesting facts about the actor and producer.
TR Narasimharaju achieved it all by simply making the cine audience laugh their hearts out for over two-and-a-half decades — be it in theatre, cinema or real life — until he passed away in the year 1979.
Dr Rajkumar and Narasimharaju. (Supplied)
Incidentally, the two biggest icons of the Kannada film industry made their film debut with Bedara Kannappa (1954).
While Dr Rajkumar played the titular role of Bedara Kannappa, Narasimharaju portrayed the role of the son of a priest as Kashinatha Shastry.
The thin-looking actor with protruding teeth instantly made a mark for himself for his ability to make the audience laugh. In fact, when he started his acting journey in theatres at the young age of four years, these very same physical features made him take up comedy roles.
His popularity soared to such a level that many producers would first get his dates and then proceed to approach lead actors for their films.
Dr Rajkumar and Narasimharaju in an emotional moment. (Supplied)
Narasimharaju and Dr Rajkumar went on to act together in numerous movies — mythological, social and modern dramas along with the popular James Bond series in Kannada.
In the Kannada version of the “James Bond” series, Dr Rajkumar played Prakash (CID agent 999) and Narasimharaju was his sidekick as Baby, (CID agent 888).
Back then, it was a well-known secret that the producers would make sure a character for Narasimha was written in their films, especially if Dr Rajkumar and Narasimharaju acted together.
Narasimharaju with actress Lakshmi Devi and B Jaya. (Supplied)
While TR Narasimharaju attained great success in films where he was featured alongside Dr Rajkumar, the actor was equally popular for teaming up with the other two “Kumars” of the Kannada film industry back then — Udaykumar and Kalyan Kumar.
On the other hand, his on-screen pairing with actress Lakshmi Devi and the late B Jaya was another highlight that evoked endless laughter.
With a strong theatrical background, “Hasya Chakravarthy” Narasimharaju stayed well-connected with professional theatre. Despite his soaring popularity, the actor continued to perform in theatres.
The actor with Dr Rajkumar, G V Iyer, and Balakrishna. (Supplied)
When the Kannada film industry faced a tough situation during the early 1960s, with only a handful of films being made in a year, he along with actors like Dr Rajkumar, GV Iyer, and Balakrishna performed in a series of plays to stay afloat during the difficult times.
Their association further resulted in setting up “Chalanachitra Kalavidhara Sangha” which produced the film Ranadheera Kanteerava (1960).
Directed by NC Rajan, the historical drama was written by GV Iyer.
Sandalwood bounced back to its glory in the coming years.
That’s not all, the actors raised funds on several occasions for various national causes and also for film artists and technicians.
Narasimharaju. (Supplied)
With over 100 films to his credit, TR Narasimharaju is yet to be duly recognised by the State government, unlike in the case of other legendary actors Sandalwood.
He produced a film titled Professor Huchuraya (1974) in memory of his son Srikanth who died in a road mishap.
Narasimharaju lived all his life with the sole motto — make everyone laugh. He continues to do so, to this date, through his works that live forever as his memory.
He is missed by all who love clean comedy, which is a rarity these days.
