Darshan Thoogudeepa, a well-known Kannada film actor, has been detained by the police in connection with an alleged murder case. The 47-year-old actor was arrested at a hotel in Mysuru for his suspected involvement in the murder of Renuka Swamy, which took place on June 9. Along with him, his rumored partner and actress Pavithra Gowda was also taken into custody for her alleged involvement in the murder. Here’s everything you need to know about Darshan Thoogudeepa and Pavithra Gowda.
Who Is Darshan Thoogudeepa?
Darshan Thoogudeepa, widely known as Darshan, is a prominent figure in the Kannada film industry. He established Thoogudeepa Productions in 2006 and has starred in numerous successful films. His recent work includes the 2023 film “Kaatera,” and others.
Darshan Thoogudeepa’s Controversies
- In 2016, Darshan’s wife filed a complaint with Bengaluru police over ‘objectionable behavior’.
- In 2021, he was accused of assaulting a waiter in Mysuru, with claims of a subsequent police cover-up and settlement.
- In 2022, a Kannada film producer accused Darshan of issuing threats.
- In January 2023, authorities raided Darshan’s farmhouse near T. Narsipur, seizing four Bar-headed geese allegedly held illegally.
- Early 2024 brought further scrutiny when actress Pavithra Gowda’s reel suggested Darshan’s involvement in an extramarital affair.
- Darshan, alongside actors Abhishek Ambareesh and Rockline Venkatesh, received police notices for alleged late-night partying in Bengaluru.
- One of the most serious incidents involves accusations of Darshan physically assaulting his wife during a film shoot in Switzerland, alongside allegations of infidelity with his co-star Nikita Thukral.
- Producer Mahadev accused Darshan of using inappropriate language toward his son during a phone conversation related to the film “Chingari”.
Who Is Pavithra Gowda?
Pavithra, known as Darshan’s close companion despite his marriage to Vijaya Lakshmi for over 20 years, is an actress in Kannada films like “Chatrigalu Saar Chatrigalu” and “Agamya”. She was involved in a case where the victim, Renukaswamy (33), allegedly harassed her over her relationship with Darshan, sending derogatory messages and lewd content. Pavithra and Darshan were taken into custody along with 11 others in connection with the incident. Pavithra’s social media post earlier this year hinted at a decade-long relationship with Darshan.
ALSO READ: Detailed: Kannada Star Darshan’s Involvement In Renuka Swamy Murder Case