Karnataka Government today organized a grand function 67th Karnataka Rajyotsava and on the occasion honored the late Puneet Rajkumar with Karnataka Ratna. Super Star Rajinikanth and Young Tiger NTR graced the event as the chief guests.
Despite heavy rain, people and fans of Puneeth Rajkumar stayed to hear the speeches. Rajinikanth completed his speech quickly to ensure fans do not get troubled due to rain and he said “Everyone must live together in peace, harmony, and happiness without the differences of caste and religion. I seek the blessings of Rajarajeshwari, Allah, and Jesus for that,” He continued "In Kali Yuga, Appu (Puneeth) is like Markandeya, Prahlada, Nachiketa. He’s God’s child. That child lived among us for some time. He played with us and made us laugh. And again that child went back to God. His aatma is with us,”
NTR showered praises on Puneeth Rajkumar and remembering him, he said “A person inherits family legacy and surname from his elders. But, individuality has to be earned. If there is anyone who has won over an entire state with just his personality and smile sans ego, arrogance, and war, it’s only Puneeth Rajkumar. He’s the people’s superstar of Karnataka. A great son, a great husband, a great father, a great friend, a dancer, and a singer. And above all these, he was a great human being. The wealth in his laughter cannot be found anywhere else. That’s why he’s called the king of the smile. That’s why he’s getting this award. But, don’t mistake me. According to me, Puneeth Rajkumar is the very definition of Karnataka Ratna,” Puneeth's wife Aswini received the award from the Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai.