Raipur: Chhollywood (C) actor and former Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation, Rajesh Awasthi, has passed away at the age of 42 due to cardiac arrest in Gariaband on Sunday night. He suffered a heart attack while he was engaged in a political rally in Gariaband and wooing people for vote in the favour of the BJP candidate. He is survived by his wife and two children. Rajesh Awasthi was the brother of fellow actor Prakash Awasthi and resided in Amalipadar village, Gariaband district.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed sorrow over the unexpected passing of Awasthi. On X, he stated, “The news of the demise of Shri Rajesh Awasthi, a renowned actor and producer in Chhattisgarhi cinema and state coordinator for the BJP’s Cultural Cell, is exceedingly sad. As the first Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation, he made exemplary contributions to promoting our folk art, culture, and traditions. His passing is an irreparable loss for the Chhattisgarhi film industry. I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant peace to his departed soul and strength to his grieving family and well-wishers.”
Manoj Verma, Secretary of the Chhattisgarh Cine and Television Producers’ Association, also shared his condolences. He remarked, “The sudden passing of actor and producer Rajesh Awasthi is a great loss for us all. He was a socially active figure who significantly contributed to the Chhattisgarhi film industry during his tenure as the first Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Film Development Corporation. His dedication and efforts will always be remembered. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his grieving family.”
Rajesh Awasthi’s last rites were performed at Mokshadham Mahadev Ghat in the state capital on Monday.
