Ambarish

Biography

Ambareesh (29 May 1952 – 24 November 2018), popularly known as Rebel Star, was an acclaimed Indian actor and politician who predominantly worked in Kannada cinema. Born as Malavalli Huchche Gowda Amarnath in Doddarasinakere village in Karnataka’s Mandya district, he became one of the most celebrated stars in Kannada cinema.

Acting Career

Ambareesh made his film debut with Puttanna Kanagal’s Naagarahaavu (1972), initially appearing in an antagonistic role. He gradually established himself as a leading actor, particularly through characters known for their rebellious and outspoken nature, earning him the nickname “Rebel Star.”

Over a career spanning more than four decades, he appeared in more than 200 films. Some of his notable works include Antha, Shubhamangala, Paduvaralli Pandavaru, Ranganayaki, Chakravyuha, Hrudaya Haaditu, Olavina Udugore, Operation Antha, Doddmane Hudga, and Kurukshetra.

Ambareesh was also recognized with several honours, including Karnataka State Film Awards and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award. Alongside Rajkumar and Vishnuvardhan, he is widely regarded as one of the major figures of Kannada cinema.

Political Career

Ambareesh entered politics in the 1990s and became a three-time Member of Parliament from the Mandya constituency. He was initially associated with Janata Dal before joining the Indian National Congress. He also served as a Union minister, including as Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting.

Personal Life

Ambareesh married actress Sumalatha in 1991, and they had a son, actor Abhishek Ambareesh.

Ambareesh died in Bengaluru on 24 November 2018 at the age of 66. He remains remembered as one of Kannada cinema’s most distinctive actors and as a prominent public figure from Karnataka.