Kannada Actor Santhosh Balaraj Dies at 34 Due to Jaundice-Related Complications

Kannada actor Santhosh Balaraj passed away on the morning of August 5, 2025, at the age of 34. The actor succumbed to complications from jaundice, which worsened due to underlying liver and kidney issues, leading to multi-organ failure. He died at Apollo Hospital in Bengaluru after spending several weeks undergoing treatment, including time in the intensive care unit.

Santhosh was well-known for his roles in Kannada films such as "Ganapa," which gained him significant popularity, and "Kariya 2." His performance in the 2012 romantic drama "Olavine Ole" also received critical appreciation. He was seen by fans and industry insiders as one of the promising stars in Sandalwood, the Kannada film industry.

He was the son of acclaimed film producer Anekal Balaraj, who produced the 2003 hit "Kariya" starring Darshan. Anekal Balaraj tragically died in a road accident in 2022. Santhosh had been carrying forward his father's legacy in cinema and was working on a film titled "Berkeley," which was in production but had not yet been released. The tragic passing of both father and son deeply affected the film community.

Santhosh was unmarried and lived with his mother following his father's demise. Reports mention that he had been planning to marry, though details remain unconfirmed. His sudden death due to jaundice and related complications has sent shockwaves through his fans and the Kannada film fraternity.

His health decline included slipping into a coma and the failure of multiple organs, as reported during his hospital stay. The actor was first admitted in July 2025 after his jaundice diagnosis, but his condition progressively worsened despite treatment efforts.

Santhosh Balaraj's death is mourned widely, marking the loss of a young talent in Indian regional cinema.