Dr Rajkumar, the James Bond of South cinema

Matinee Idol and Sandalwood legendary actor Dr Rajkumar was a name to reckon with. Even years after his leaving the world, Kannada fans still have a huge respect and love for him. Reason: His versatile acting skills and simplicity in real life.

He became a household name after he delivered back-to-back hits. From playing the role of a lover boy and family man to a cop and James Bond, Rajkumar was an actor who was most sought after in the Kannada Film Industry.  Today his sons Shivrajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar are carrying forward his legacy in movies.He's the only South Indian actor who dared play James Bond and he played it to perfection.

Rajkumar shares his birthday with the legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar. Rajkumar fan associations in Karnataka have planned social service activities to mark his birth anniversary.

Here's a song from one of his hit movies Yeradu Kanasu

THI