In a remarkable tribute to Kannada cinema legend Dr Vishnuvardhan, the fans association Dr Vishnu Sena Samiti has set a record by installing 51 giant cutouts of the late actor, each measuring 40 feet by 8 feet. The record, recognised by the Asia Book of Records, marks the first-ever achievement of its kind in India dedicated to a film star.
The cutouts were installed on 18 September 2022 at Abhimaan Studio, the site where the actor’s final rites were performed in December 2009. The event, termed “Cut-out Jatre” (Cut-out Fair), was organised by forty members of the fans association, led by Veerakaputra M Srinivas, to commemorate Dr Vishnuvardhan’s 50 years in Sandalwood.
The Asia Book of Records’ grand jury confirmed the feat in February and officially awarded the fans association with a certificate and medal. “We submitted our record request on the same day of the event. The agency conducted multi-level checks, including a physical site inspection. Now it’s officially certified,” said Veerakaputra M Srinivas.
The event attracted an estimated 2.5 lakh visitors, according to Bengaluru Police, and the cutouts became immensely popular among fans. The fans association stated, “This record is a tribute from every die-hard admirer of ‘Sahasa Simha’ Dr Vishnuvardhan, who continues to live in our hearts even 13 years after his passing.”
Special mention was made for the individuals behind the project: Anand Raj, who executed the installation, Raj Vishnu, who designed the giant cutouts, and Janardhan Rao, who liaised with the Asia Book of Records to get the feat officially recognised.
This record highlights the enduring legacy of Dr Vishnuvardhan and the devotion of his fans, cementing his place not only in cinema history but also in the annals of record-breaking achievements.
