One of the strongest connections to the golden era of yesteryear cinema, Chi Dattaraju, son of Chi Sadashivaiah and younger brother of the unforgettable Chi Udayashanker, passed away on Monday, October 14, 2024, due to age-related issues. He was 87 years old and had been living with Chi Gurudutt, son of Chi Udayashanker, for some time.
Although Chi Dattaraju began his career as an assistant director with the Kannada film Arasina Kumkumam, directed by KSL Swamee (Ravee), he went on to direct some of the finest films featuring Dr. Rajakumar, such as Keralida Simha, Kamana Billu, Adhe Kannu, and Shruthi Seridaaga. He also directed films starring Dr. Shivarajakumar, including Mruthyunjaya, Ananda Jyothi, and Aralida Hoogalu.
Chi Dattaraju authored a compilation of Dr. Rajakumar’s life story, titled Katha Nayakana Kathe, published in Vijaya Chitra magazine in Kannada. This biography, the first of its kind on Dr. Rajakumar, was serialized across 93 issues over seven and a half years, detailing many of the epoch-making actor’s life experiences.
In Bengaluru, Chi Dattaraju was lovingly cared for by Chi Gurudutt, and his final rites were performed on Monday afternoon at Harishchandra Ghat in the Srirampuram locality.
In 2012, while receiving the prestigious SR Puttanna Kanagal award, Chi Dattaraju fondly remembered Dr. Rajakumar, who had entrusted him with the role of director. He expressed his gratitude for the honor.
Dr. Rajakumar, once curious about the secret behind Chi Dattaraju’s flawless Kannada, was told that his mastery was thanks to Amara Kosha and Rathnan Pada. Dr. Rajakumar affectionately called him “Dattu.” During the height of their collaborations, Chi Dattaraju spent an average of fifteen hours a day with the legendary actor for over three decades.
