Kannada Actor Santhosh Balaraj Dies at 34 After Battling Jaundice
Updated on: 05 August, 2025 05:37 PM IST |Shweta Shah
Kannada actor Santhosh Balaraj passes away at 34
In a tragic blow to Sandalwood fans, Kannada actor Santhosh Balaraj died at the age of 34 on August 5, 2025, after a prolonged battle with severe jaundice. Despite receiving intensive medical treatment in Bengaluru, his condition deteriorated, and he breathed his last at a private hospital in the city.
Santhosh, the son of producer Anekal Balaraj, launched his acting career in 2009 with Kempa, produced under his family banner.
Although his early films like Olavina Ole (2012) and Janma (2013) received mixed responses, it was Ganapa (2015) that marked his major breakthrough. His gritty portrayal of a young man forced into the underworld won him critical acclaim and helped cement his rising reputation in Kannada cinema. Ganapa was later dubbed in Hindi as Daada Ka Vaada.
Continuing his momentum, Santhosh delivered another strong performance in Kariya 2 (2017), an action‐romantic underworld drama that earned positive reviews and holds a 7.1 rating on IMDb. His portrayal in Kariya 2 further showcased his range as a performer and confirmed his status as a promising youth talent in Sandalwood.
Over the past few months, Santhosh had been battling complications from jaundice, which grew more serious with time. He was admitted to Sagar Apollo Hospital in Kumaraswamy Layout, Bengaluru, and treated in the ICU. Medical reports indicate that his entire body was affected by the condition, pushing him into a coma before his passing.
His death comes just three years after his father’s tragic demise in a road accident in May 2022, making this loss even more devastating for family and industry peers.
Santhosh was unmarried and lived with his mother; industry lines are filled with grief at the loss of such youthful potential.
Debut and family legacy: His career began in 2009 with Kempa, produced by his father, and he is recognised as part of a prominent Sandalwood family.
Breakthrough with Ganapa: Defined by his intense role in Ganapa (2015), where critics noted that “Santhosh … has grown as a performer.” Rise via Kariya 2: The 2017 film elevated his profile and demonstrated his versatility in the gangster romance genre.
Radio City extends its heartfelt condolences to his friends and family. Rest in peace, superstar.
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