Kannada Star Aparna Vastarey Passes Away at 57

Kannada actor and television presenter Aparna Vastarey passed away after a battle with lung cancer. She was known for her work on DD Chandana and her participation in the Kannada reality show Bigg Boss. Vastarey had a significant impact on the Kannada entertainment industry, earning praise from political and literary figures.

Popular Kannada actor, television presenter and former radio jockey Aparna Vastarey passed away on Thursday night, sources close to her said.

Vastarey, 57, had been battling lung cancer for the last two years, according to her husband, Nagaraj Vastarey.

Renowned for her work as a presenter on DD Chandana and her role in government programmes, she amassed a strong fan base due to her impeccable Kannada diction.

In 1998, she made a record by presenting shows for eight hours straight during Diwali celebrations.

She made her cinematic debut in 1984 with Puttanna Kanagal's last film, 'Masanada Hoovu', and featured in numerous Kannada TV shows.

Vastarey was also the voice behind Bengaluru Metro announcements.

She participated in the Kannada reality television show Bigg Boss, and her role as 'Varalakshmi' in the popular comedy show 'Majaa Talkies' was well-received.

Several dignitaries, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, expressed their condolences on her passing.

''Saddened to hear the news of the death of actress and famous presenter Aparna. A multifaceted talent who was a household name in the state, by presenting in the Kannada language very elegantly in the programmes of major Kannada channels and government functions, has left us very soon,'' Siddaramaiah posted on X.

(With inputs from agencies.)