Dr. Raj Kumar popularly called as "Annavaru" by his fans has been the superstar of the Kannada Film Industry since his debut film "Beddara Kannappa" which was released in 1954.  Raj has been awarded honorary Doctorate degree for his acting.  Raj has also been honored by two other prestigious awards, namely the Dadasaheb Phalke and Padmabhushan for his contribution to the Kannada Film Industry.

Raj Kumar was born on April 24th, 1929 in village Singhanallur (Mysore District) to Lakshmamma and Singanallur Puttaswamiah.  His parents named him "Muthuraj".   Raj is married to Parvathamma and they have five children between them (3 sons and 2 daughters) namely Shivaraj, Raghavendra, Puneeth, Poornima and Lakshmi.  His three sons Shivaraj, Raghavendra and Puneeth also act in the Kannada Movies.  Raj's sons are currently competing with him in the Kannada film land but have been unable to match his charismatic aura and acting skills which are unparallel to none in the Kannada Film Industry.

Dr. Raj Kumar has acted in over 200 films and his most recent movie "Shabdavedi" was released on February 10, 2000.  He is famous for his portrayal of mythological heroes, kings and also in commercial movies where he acted in  various roles.   His  most famous movie "Bangarada Manasuya" created a record in the Kannada Film Land by running continuously for two years. Dr. Raj's other popular movies include Kasthuri Nivasa, Bhakta Khumbara, Sampthige Savaal, Ranadheera Kantheerava, Sri Krishnadevaraya, Sepoy Ramu, Shankar Guru, Eradu Kanasu, Premada Kannike, etc.

Dr. Raj Kumar's talent is not only in acting but also in singing.  His first movie song "Yaare Koogadali" took the Kannada Film Industry by storm and is one of the popular songs.  He has also song numerous devotional songs.

Miscellaneous Links on Dr. Raj Kumar:

Welcome to Raj Kumar's Official Web Site

Dr. Raj Kumar - The Living Legend

Kannada Songs of Dr. Raj Kumar

Photo Gallery of Rajkumar (Indiainfo.com)