Cudavalli Chandrashekar, known more popularly as Chandru in Ottawa was the first Canadian Kannadiga to receive the prestigious Rajyostava award in 2004 for his contribution to the Kannada Film Industry. He was an actor, director and producer of Kannada films.
Chandrashekar began acting in plays at the tender age of 5 and went on to join Karanth and Girish Karnad Troupe. At the age of 13, he was a child artist in the popular movie Namma Makalu. Chandru went on to act as a lead role in the cult film Edakallu Guddada Mele, directed by Puttanna Kanagal, which is where he got his acting name ‘Edakallu Chandrashekar’. At the height of his career, he married Sheela Chandrashekar, and moved to Ottawa in 1985. He dedicated his life to promoting Indian Art & Culture, especially through the Silver Screen.
To his fame, Edakallu Chandrashekar has acted in over 70 films from the Southern Part of India and released a feature film ‘Poorvapara’, which was filmed in India, Canada, and the United States in 2004 and was felicitated by Kannada Sangha’s across the world. He also directed the critically acclaimed tele film Tribhanga, in Canada and most recently directed a movie called Kempammana Court Case, which also starred his daughter Tanya.
Chandru was also one of instrumental members in having Kannada Sangha established as an organization and a key member in getting Kannada School started here in Ottawa. He directed and acted in plays for Kannada Sangha Ottawa as well.
Chandru had a sudden passing in January 2018, leaving his wife, Sheela, daughter, Tanya, and close family friends in Ottawa in shock. He will forever be remembered for his wittiness, charming smile and jokes.