Today is October 14, 2025. Raju Talikote, a renowned Indian actor and comedian, was a beloved figure in Kannada theatre and cinema. He passed away recently on October 13, 2025, leaving behind a rich legacy in entertainment. This article tells the story of his early life, career, and major milestones in his journey.
Early Life And Background
Raju Talikote was born in 1963 in a small village called Talikote, located in the Vijayapur district of Karnataka, India. His real name was Rajesaba Maktumasab Yankanchi. He was called Raju Talikote after the village where he grew up. Both his parents were theatre artists. They ran a drama troupe called the "Shriguru Khasgateshwara Natya Sangha," which deeply influenced his love for acting from a very young age.
Raju started acting in theatre at around seven years old. He performed as a child artist at Shriguru Khasgateshwara Math, the local school he attended up until the 4th standard. Unfortunately, after the death of his parents, his formal education was disrupted. Despite the difficulties, he stayed committed to theatre, learning every aspect of stage performance. To support himself, he worked in small jobs such as cleaning in hotels and lorries before returning full-time to his passion for acting and theatre.
Raju Talikote Age, Wikipedia, Biography, Birth Place, Wife, Family
Career
Raju Talikote became a well-known figure in the Kannada theatre world. He continued his parents' legacy by managing and performing in their drama troupe. One of his biggest successes was the play "Kaliyugada Kuduka," which had over 15,000 performances. The play was also recorded on audio cassette in the 1990s, boosting his popularity. Other famous plays he wrote or acted in include "Kudukara Samrajya" and "Hattigudi Lakkavva." His work in theatre was loved by many and helped keep the tradition of Kannada stage arts alive.
Gained Fame
Raju Talikote later moved into films, where he gained fame as a comedian and actor. His first film was "Hendathi Andare Hendathi." Over the years, he acted in many Kannada movies, becoming a familiar face in popular cinema. Some of his well-known films are "Punjabi House" (2002), "Manasaare" (2009), "Pancharangi" (2010), "Lifeu Ishtene" (2011), "Myna" (2013), and "Topiwala" (2013), among others. He was appreciated for his comic timing and natural acting style.
Television And Reality Shows
Apart from theatre and films, Raju also participated in the reality television series "Bigg Boss Kannada" in its seventh season. This brought him closer to a wider audience and showed a different side of his personality beyond acting. His charm and humor gained him many fans and made him a respected celebrity on TV as well.
Personal Life
Raju Talikote had two marriages. His first wife was named Prema, and they had two sons and a daughter. His second wife, also named Prema, was from Sindhanur, and they had two daughters. Despite personal struggles, including the early loss of his parents, Raju remained dedicated to his family and work.
Legacy And Death
Raju Talikote worked until his last days as the Director of Dharwad Rangayana, a prominent theatre institution. His sudden death on October 13, 2025, due to a heart attack was a big loss to the Kannada cultural world. He was mourned by supporters, fellow actors, and political leaders alike. Former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai described Raju's death as an irreplaceable loss. Raju's work, however, continues to inspire many aspiring actors and theatre artists in Karnataka and beyond.
Conclusion
Raju Talikote's journey from a small village boy to a popular theatre and film actor is a story of passion, hard work, and talent. With roots deeply embedded in theatre, he brought joy to many through his performances on stage and screen. His legacy lives on through his plays, films, and the countless memories he created for his fans. His life shows how dedication to art can overcome life's hardships and leave a lasting mark in the world of entertainment.