On 13 April 2006, Kanteerava Studios, which is considered as a major landmark in the history of Kannada cinema, became the burial ground of
Rajkumar, who is generally considered as
Kannada cinema's greatest son. Dr. Rajkumar died at his home in Sadashiva Nagar,
Bangalore, on 12 April 2006 (13.45
IST) following a
cardiac arrest. Due to his larger than life image, the city virtually came to a halt as the news spread about the death. His death precipitated a citywide reaction comparable to the time he was kidnapped by
Veerappan. Following the news of his death, Bangalore city saw violence by people claiming to be his fans. The Chief Minister
H.D. Kumaraswamy later claimed that the violence was instigated by vested political interests. An unofficial
bandh (closure of all shops and other establishments) was announced. The
state government declared a statewide holiday on 13 April as a mark of respect to the departed soul, who was also a recipient of
Karnataka Ratna (
Gem of Karnataka) award. Private firms and businesses all over the city and many parts of the state remained closed due to the holiday. The body was kept initially at Rajkumar's home in Sadashiva Nagar. Due to the immense crowd pressure, the body was moved initially to
Palace Grounds and then later to the
Sree Kanteerava Stadium. He was laid to rest in Kanteerava Studios, on 13 April 2006. ==Dr. Rajkumar Memorial (now Puneeth Rajkumar too)==