Bengaluru :

Renowned Kannada movie director Geethapriya (84) passed away at K C General Hospital here on Sunday. He was admitted to the hospital as he was suffering from multiple health issues.

Born on June 15, 1932, he joined the film industry in 1954. Lakshman Rao Mohite, who became popular as Geethapriya in the film industry, was introduced by music director Vijay Bhaskar. He started out as a lyricist, who wrote two songs for ‘Sri Rama Puja’ in 1955.

Geethapriya has directed nearly 40 movies including ‘Mannina Maga’, ‘Durgashtami’, ‘Naari Munidhare Maari’, ‘Besuge’, ‘Mouna Geethe’, ‘Putaani Agent’. He was felicitated with a national award for his directorial debut in ‘Mannina Maga’.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in his condolence message, said, “Though Geethap riya is no more, the songs written by him will remain close to our hearts.”

Information Minister Roshan Baig also condoled Geethapriya’s death.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Cities> Bengaluru / by Express News Service / January 18th, 2016