Puneeth Rajkumar death: Karnataka announces state honours for funeral, CM Basavaraj Bommai calls it a 'huge personal loss'

Power Star Puneeth Rajkumar’s funeral will be held with state honours announced Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai following the actor’s sudden demise after suffering a heart attack. Condolences and tributes are pouring in from all corners as the star fondly called ‘Appu’ arrived home one last time.

Huge security is stationed outside the late actor’s home where fans have gathered in huge numbers to pay their last respects. Preparations are underway for the funeral and relatives and well wishers of the star also arrived at his residence.

Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai who had earlier arrived at the hospital to visit the actor this morning after he was brought in, called Puneeth Rajkummar’s death a ‘huge personal loss’ on Twitter. He wrote, "Shocked and deeply saddened as Karnataka's most loved superstar #PuneetRajkumar is no longer with us. A huge personal loss and one that's difficult to come to terms with. Praying the almighty gives the Rajkumar family and fans the strength to bear this loss. #OmShanti.”

The actor who was 46 years old also received a tribute from Prime Minister Narendra Modi who wrote on Twitter, “A cruel twist of fate has snatched away from us a prolific and talented actor, Puneeth Rajkumar. This was no age to go. The coming generations will remember him fondly for his works and wonderful personality. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Former PM H D Devegowda also issued a statement and said, "The news of the death of film actor, Yuvaratna Puneet Rajkumar is shocking. I watched Appu starring Prithviraj and rajakumara along with him. Today Karnataka lost yuvaratna. May the Lord grant peace to His soul. May God bring peace to his family and his fans."

The colleagues of the star also mourned this tragic loss on social media expressing shock and sending prayers to his family.