The brutal murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fervent fan of Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, has gripped national attention. Renukaswamy was allegedly killed for making derogatory comments on social media about Kannada actress Pavithra Gowda, a close friend and rumored partner of Darshan.
To date, over 15 people have been arrested in connection with the murder, including the "Challenging Star" Darshan and Pavithra Gowda. The ongoing investigation has revealed a chilling conspiracy implicating several prominent figures within Darshan's fan association.
The Victim and His Alleged Offense
Renukaswamy, a resident of Lakshmi Venkateswara Layout in Chitradurga, Karnataka, worked at a local pharmacy. Newly married, his wife is now three months pregnant. Allegedly, Renukaswamy had sent obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda, blaming her for causing a rift between Darshan and his wife, Vijayalakshmi. Additionally, he was accused of forwarding explicit images of himself to Gowda, boasting about his superiority over Darshan.
Plot to Teach Him a Lesson
Angered by Renukaswamy's actions, Pavithra allegedly sought revenge with the help of her associates. Raghavendra, President of the Darshan Fans’ Association in Chitradurga, was tasked with locating Renukaswamy. On June 8, under the guise of introducing Renukaswamy to his idol, Raghavendra lured him from Chitradurga. Renukaswamy was then transported in a hired car to a vehicle impound shed in Bengaluru's Rajarajeshwari Nagar, owned by Vinay, a hotelier and close associate of Darshan.
The Gruesome Murder
CCTV footage revealed actor Darshan's Thar entering the shed at around 7 pm and leaving at 3 am. Inside the shed, Darshan and Pavithra allegedly subjected Renukaswamy to a brutal beating. Pavithra reportedly struck him with a slipper while Darshan used a belt until he lost consciousness. Accomplices then attacked him with sticks, rods, and a wooden club, ultimately throwing him against a wall, causing fatal multiple bone fractures. Renukaswamy succumbed to his injuries.
Attempted Cover-Up
Following Renukaswamy's death, Pavan, a househelp, informed Darshan and received Rs 30 lakh in cash to manage the situation. Vinay then contacted a police sub-inspector (PSI), falsely reporting that the murder stemmed from a financial dispute.
At the PSI's suggestion, Pradosh took Rs 30 lakh to find Karthik and his team from Girinagar, who agreed to take the blame and surrender for the crime. Pradosh initially paid them Rs 5 lakh, with the remaining amount promised after their trial. The accused were assured that all court expenses, including bail, would be covered.
As the investigation continues, more details about this shocking incident are emerging, shedding light on the dark underbelly of fandom and celebrity culture in the region.