Late Kannada actor Puneeth Rajkumar’s life and values are set to inspire students as lessons on his journey will be included in future editions of Karnataka school textbooks. The Karnataka Textbook Society has confirmed that the proposal will be placed before its chairman during the next textbook revision process.

The move, first proposed in 2022 following an appeal by a fan from T Narasipura, aims to highlight Puneeth’s evolution from a child artist to a socially committed actor and philanthropist. His father Dr Rajkumar’s life is already part of the sixth standard Kannada curriculum, and fans have long demanded similar recognition for Puneeth.

Reacting to the development, Puneeth’s wife Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar expressed happiness and gratitude. She said the honour was deeply meaningful to the family and described it as a rare recognition in the world of cinema. Sharing the news with their children, she said they understood the significance of their father being remembered in an academic space.

Ashwini added that including Puneeth’s life in textbooks would help children learn about his values beyond his film career. She recalled his strong belief in hard work, sincerity and giving one’s best, noting that he consistently lived by those principles.

 “He always believed in hard work and giving his 100 per cent. He used to say that when you give your hundred per cent, there is always a good chance of success. You need to put your heart and soul into whatever you do.” She added, “And he didn’t just say it — he always lived by it.”

Inputs from TOI 

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