Kannada actor Darshan has sparked controversy after skipping a court hearing in the Renukaswamy murder case, citing health issues, only to attend a private screening of the Kannada film Vamana the following evening.
During Tuesday’s hearing, Darshan’s lawyer explained his absence was due to severe back pain. However, his public appearance at a three-hour film screening the next day drew sharp criticism from the Bengaluru court overseeing the case. The judge issued a stern warning, emphasizing that no further exemptions would be allowed for future hearings.
The Renukaswamy murder case has been under the spotlight since the 33-year-old victim’s body was discovered near a stormwater drain in Bengaluru in June 2024. Allegations point to provocative messages sent by Renukaswamy to Pavithra Gowda, Darshan’s associate, which reportedly fueled the actor’s actions.
Of the seventeen accused, sixteen, including Pavithra Gowda—considered the prime accused—appeared in court on Tuesday. Darshan now faces heightened scrutiny as the legal proceedings continue to unfold.
