Bengaluru: Murder accused Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa turned 48 on Monday, marking his birthday under dramatically different circumstances this year as he remains lodged in Parappana Agrahara Central Prison in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case.
The actor, who in previous years celebrated his birthday with fans and members of the film fraternity, is currently in judicial custody following his arrest in June 2024.
Vijayalakshmi Shares Birthday Message
On the occasion, Darshan’s wife Vijayalakshmi shared a birthday message on social media that quickly drew attention from fans. She posted what appeared to be an earlier photograph featuring Darshan and their son Vineesh, with three birthday cakes placed in front of them.
One cake carried an elephant motif, reflecting the actor’s known fondness for the animal, while the other cakes displayed the messages “Happy Birthday” and “Love.”
In her note, Vijayalakshmi wrote, “To the man who is celebrated every day, happiest birthday.”
According to reports, she was expected to visit a temple to offer prayers and may seek permission to meet Darshan in prison, subject to jail regulations governing inmate visits.
From Arrest to Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Darshan was arrested in June 2024 in Mysuru in connection with the alleged murder of Renukaswamy, a medical shop employee from Chitradurga. Investigators allege that the victim was assaulted in a shed in Pattanagere and later succumbed to injuries. His body was discovered a day after the incident.
Darshan, along with several others, was named in the First Information Report. Actress Pavithra Gowda was also cited as an accused in the case.
The case continues to be under judicial process. Meanwhile, the actor’s birthday this year remains marked not by public celebrations, but by ongoing legal scrutiny and confinement.
