Some of the top films producer, robust actor M.P.Shanker died on Thursday afternoon in Mysore after a prolonged bone cancer.
He was 70 acted in 60 plus films and produced 16 films including the ever green Kannada film 'Gandha Gudi' that starred Dr.Rajakumar and Dr.Vishnuvardhana for the first time.
A humble employee of the railway workshop in Msyore rose to become not only a very popular film actor but also a very enterprising film producer. In his young age he evinced keen interest in theatre plays and formed his own troupe 'Bharani Kalavidaru' and later started his own banner called 'Bharani Chitra'.
M.P.Shanker has distinguished himself as a pioneer in the production of jungle films in the Kannada language. He is basically an animal lover and has made use of the film medium to spread the same love for animals even among the ordinary people.
He has so far made half dozen films centering the same theme, a couple of them with distinction and profit. But he has also taken a lot of financial risks while doing so and isn't exactly a happy man today because of the heavy losses he has incurred.
A wrestler by training he is also known for a wide range of roles has played though he started his career as a villain.
He produced was 'Kadina Rahasya' in 1968. The very next year he directed 'Kallara Kalla' in 1969. Some of the top films he produced are Gandhada Gudi (I and II), Rathnamanjari, Kadina Rahasya, Nari Muhidhare Maari, Giddu Dada and others. He is known for powerful portrayal in 'Satya Harischandra' ' the all time favorite song Kuladalli Keelyavudho'he appears as 'Veera Bahu'.
His roles in Gandhada Gudi, Mrugalaya, Rama Lakshmana, Mannina Maga, Nagara Haavu, Huliya Halina Mevu, Boolokadalli Yamaraja, Bangaradha Manushya, Devara Makkalu, Doorada Betta, Mayor Muthanna, Boothayyana Maga Ayyu are the unforgettable ones.