Mysore/Mysuru: Veteran Kannada film actor B. Shanthamma (95) died due to age-related issues at a private hospital in the city yesterday. 

Shanthamma made her debut in Kannada movies with  Dr. Rajkumar-starrer ‘Ohileshwara’ in 1956 and has more than 400 films to her credit. She was known mainly for playing supporting and character roles. Her last movie was ‘Endendigu’ in 2015. 

Some of her popular films include ‘Naandi, Nodi Swamy Naavirodu Heege’, and ‘Babruvahana’. When Siddharamaiah was the Chief Minister, he held Janata Darshans where he directly interacted with the citizens of the State. In one such meet, Shanthamma had appealed to the Congress leader for financial help. Siddharamaiah had directed his officials to provide the help needed then.

Shanthamma had shifted to her daughter’s house in Mysuru recently. Her health deteriorated on Saturday night. “We visited several hospitals from 4 pm to 1 am but they denied admission. At last, she was admitted to a private hospital where she passed away a while later,” said her daughter Suma. 

Her throat swabs have been sent for COVID tests and the final rites will be performed only after the lab reports come, said family members.