‘Appu’ (2002), the Kannada film directed by Puri Jagannadh, marked the sensational debut of Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar, launched him to instant stardom with his very first film. As a tribute to the late Power Star, the film was re-released on his 50th birthday, and the celebrations were nothing short of grand.
Fans expressed their love with deafening cheers, fireworks, confetti, and energetic dance performances in front of theatres. Fan clubs went beyond mere celebrations by organizing multiple food drives and social service activities, reflecting the deep bond they shared with their beloved icon. The “Housefull” board stood tall in front of theatres throughout the weekend.
Watching ‘Appu’ once again on the big screen reminded everyone why Puneeth Rajkumar became an instant star. There has never been a debut as iconic as his, where his charm and on-screen magic captured hearts effortlessly.
Dr. Rajkumar, one of the most defining superstars of Kannada cinema and a beloved icon, continues to be the pride of the Kannada film industry. Being the son of such a legendary figure, Puneeth Rajkumar was already adored by the people of Karnataka. From sharing screen space with his father as a child actor in multiple films to winning a National Award for ‘Bettada Hoovu,’ Puneeth’s journey was remarkable.
When Puneeth made his debut as a leading man in ‘Appu’ (2002), the excitement was unparalleled. The people of Karnataka had watched him grow, sing, dance, and showcase his acting brilliance from a young age. It was only natural for them to embrace him as the next big star from the moment his debut was announced.
However, Puneeth’s stardom wasn’t merely inherited. His dedication and preparation were evident on screen. From breathtaking action sequences to flawless dance moves and powerful performances, he set new standards for a debut actor. With ‘Appu,’ Kannada cinema witnessed the birth of a superstar from the very first screening. The movie completed a 200-day run in theatres.
‘Appu’ (2002) also marked the debut of Rakshita, who instantly won over audiences and went on to become one of the most popular leading ladies of Kannada cinema. The film was further strengthened by a stellar supporting cast, including Avinash, Srinivas Murthy, Sumithra, Sathyajith, and many more, who kept the narrative engaging.
Backed by experienced technicians, especially Gurukiran’s music, which was a massive success, the film’s playlist remains timeless. During the re-release, theatres turned into musical concerts, with fans singing along to every song. The special touch of hearing Dr. Rajkumar’s songs again added to the nostalgia, making it an unforgettable experience for this generation.
The story of ‘Appu’ remains pure and heartwarming, weaving love, family emotions, and friendship into an entertaining and genuine narrative. Watching the film in 2025 evokes a sense of warmth, reminding us of an era when family entertainers were crafted for audiences of all ages. In today’s cinematic landscape, such storytelling has become rare, making ‘Appu’ even more special upon rewatch. The goodness and genuineness of Puneeth Rajkumar as Appu continue to win hearts.
‘Appu’ will remain one of the most cherished cinematic experiences of the year. For every cine-goer in Karnataka, this re-release was an opportunity not just to celebrate Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar in all his glory but also to feel the bittersweet ache of his absence. The overwhelming response proves how deeply he is loved, and as this year’s screenings conclude, fans are already looking forward to next year’s re-release, keeping his legacy alive on the big screen.
