KGF Actor Harish Rai Dies After Long Battle With Cancer: The Loss of ‘KGF Chacha’

The Kannada film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Harish Rai, best known for his memorable role as Chacha in the blockbuster KGF franchise. The beloved Sandalwood actor passed away on Thursday at the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology in Bengaluru, following a prolonged battle with cancer. His last video from the hospital recently went viral, leaving fans heartbroken across Karnataka.

Harish Rai Death A Sad Day for Kannada Cinema

Veteran Kannada actor Harish Rai, who gained fame through powerful performances in films like KGF, Om, and Nalla, has passed away after battling thyroid cancer for several years.
He was undergoing treatment at Kidwai Hospital, where he breathed his last.

Rai had been open about his illness since 2022, revealing in an interview that he grew his beard during the KGF shoot to hide swelling in his neck caused by cancer.
“Situations can bestow greatness upon you or take things away,” he had said, describing his struggle both emotionally and financially.

Harish Rai Health Battle and Viral Hospital Video

Earlier this year, photos and videos of Harish Rai’s illness surfaced online, showing the actor’s frail condition in a hospital bed. The viral video from Kidwai Hospital stirred an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities.

Several members of the Kannada film industry, including actors and organizations, extended financial help for his medical treatment, with fans using social media to raise awareness about his condition.

Despite the hardship, Rai remained optimistic and expressed hope to return to acting once his health improved.

Harish Rai: From Udupi Roots to Sandalwood Stardom

Born in Udupi and raised in Mumbai, Harish Rai entered the Kannada film industry after forming close associations with actors like Upendra and Shivarajkumar.
He made his mark in the 1990s, appearing in some of Sandalwood’s most iconic films, including Om, Operation Antha, and Nalla.

Rai’s unique screen presence, expressive eyes, and powerful dialogue delivery earned him a loyal fan base. His portrayal of “Chacha” in KGF and KGF Chapter 2 brought him renewed fame among younger audiences and pan-India recognition.

Harish Rai Movies: A Legacy of Powerful Performances

Harish Rai’s filmography spans over three decades. He was known for his versatility across genres — from villains to emotional character roles. Some of his most notable works include:

• KGF and KGF 2 (as Chacha)
• Om (with Shivarajkumar)
• Operation Antha
• Nalla
• Jodi Hakki
• Sanju Weds Geetha
• Thayavva
• Underworld

He also appeared in several Tamil films, such as Raj Bahaddur and Meendum Oru Kadhal Kathai.

Harish Rai was widely admired for his dedication and humility despite facing personal and financial hardships.

Fans and Celebrities Pay Tribute to Harish Rai

Following the news of Harish Rai’s death, social media was flooded with condolence messages from fans, co-stars, and industry colleagues.
Many described him as a true artist who gave his all to cinema, even during his health struggles.

Prominent Kannada stars including Upendra and Shivarajkumar expressed their grief, remembering Rai as “a humble soul and passionate performer.”

Fans have been sharing scenes from KGF and Om to honor his memory, calling him a “pillar of Sandalwood character acting.”

Harish Rai Life Beyond Cinema

Outside of acting, Harish Rai led a modest life. Despite his fame, he faced several personal struggles, including a brief jail term earlier in his career — but he always bounced back with dignity.
He once stated that acting was his true calling and that he hoped to inspire new artists through his journey.

He is survived by his wife and two children, who were by his side during his final moments. His family has requested privacy as they cope with this loss.

The End of an Era in Sandalwood

Harish Rai’s passing marks the end of an era for Kannada cinema.
He represented the gritty, emotional storytelling that defined 1990s Sandalwood films. From Om to KGF 2, his career bridged generations of Kannada audiences.

His fans remember him as the “KGF Chacha” who won hearts on screen and as a fighter off-screen who never gave up despite battling a severe illness.

The death of Harish Rai is a tremendous loss to the Kannada film industry.
He will always be remembered for his iconic performances, humble personality, and unwavering passion for acting.

May his soul rest in peace, and may his contributions continue to inspire generations of artists and fans across India.