Bengaluru: In a heartbreaking loss to the Kannada film industry, actor Santhosh Balaraj died at the age of 34 on the morning of Tuesday.

According to reports, he succumbed to complications arising from jaundice after weeks of illness.

Santhosh breathed his last at a private hospital in Bengaluru at approximately 9:45 am. He had been battling jaundice for several weeks, during which the infection reportedly spread throughout his body, leading to severe health deterioration. He was admitted to the ICU when his condition worsened, but medical intervention could not save him.

The actor was the son of Anekal Balaraj, a well-known Kannada film producer who produced Kariya, the 2003 hit film featuring Darshan. His father had died in a tragic road accident in 2022. Santhosh, who was unmarried, resided with his mother.

Having played lead roles in films like Kariya 2, Kempa, Ganapa, Barkley, and Satya, Santhosh was considered a talented and promising figure in Sandalwood. His sudden demise has left the film fraternity and his admirers mourning a life and career cut short.