Kannada film and theatre artiste Vijaya Yakkundi passes away

Renowned artiste Vijaya Yakkundi, known for her work in theatre, film, and television, passed away in Bengaluru at 79.

Renowned theatre, film, and television artiste, Vijaya Yakkundi, passed away in Bengaluru on January 31, 2025. She was 79.

She is know for her performance in works such as Ondaanondu Kaaladalli, Krourya, and Taayi Saaheb. She gained popularity in her role as Sushilabai Deshmukh in the acclaimed Kannada serial Moodala Mane.

In her long career as an artiste, she worked with luminaries like B. V. Karanth, Girish Karnad, Shankar Nag, Girish Kasaravalli, Vaishali Kasaravalli, and Jayamala.

Vijaya Yakkundi was born in Dharwad to a family that encouraged her to pursue her passion in the arts. She was trained in Bharatanatyam, Hindustani vocal music, and in acting. Simultaneously, she completed her degrees in the arts and the law.

She is survived by her husband Suresh Yakkundi, and daughter Gargi Panchangam, both in Bengaluru, and son Nachiketa Yakkundi, who resides in California.