BANGALORE: Popular Kannada actor Vishnuvardhan died of cardiac arrest in Mysore in the wee hours today. He was 59.
Vishnuvardhan, whom his fans had fondly awarded the title "sahasa simha" (a valour lion), developed breathing problems at about 0230 hours and he was immediately taken to a private hospital where he breathed his last, sources said.
According to hospital sources, he died at around 0300 hrs.
His actress wife Bharathi and son-in-law Anirudh were by his side when the Kannada star died.
Sources said the body of the actor, who has acted in 197 films, has been brought here.
Vishnuvardhan, a versatile actor, made his debut into the 'Sandalwood' through "Vamsharukha", an art film directed by Janapeetha awardee Girish Karnad.
He was launched into fame for his role 'Ramachargi', a wayward and rebellious student in "Nagarahaavu", a film directed by acclaimed director Puttanna Kanagal.