Who Was Kalasiri Comedian Annappa Bannur; Puttur’s Selfless Artist and Champion of the Needy

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Annappa, a 29-year-old resident of Bannur, Puttur, who passed away on June 21, 2025, in a private hospital in Mangaluru after a brief illness. Known to many as the “Kalasiri Joker” from his memorable appearances on Zee Kannada’s Comedy Kiladigalu, Annappa was a beloved artist, philanthropist, and the founder of Kalasiri Gombe Balaga (Regd.), Puttur, whose life was defined by creativity and selfless service.

Annappa rose to fame through his vibrant performances on Comedy Kiladigalu, where his comedic flair and unique persona as the Kalasiri Joker won over audiences across Karnataka. His ability to bring laughter to countless homes was only matched by his dedication to helping the underprivileged.

Through his work with Sahaya Hastha Lokaseva Trust, Annappa donned colorful costumes at local jatre (village fairs) and events, raising funds to support poor children’s education and medical care for those in need. His annual performances with Kalasiri Gombe Balaga, featuring elaborate puppet costumes, blended entertainment with charity, directing proceeds to destitute families and those battling health issues.

A humble soul, Annappa’s disguises hid his identity but amplified his generosity. His legacy as a performer and philanthropist will continue to inspire Puttur and beyond. He leaves behind a community of admirers and countless lives touched by his kindness. May his soul rest in peace.

The Kalasiri Comedian Who Laughed and Loved for Others

Born in 1996 in Bannoor, Puttur, Annappa was a multifaceted artist, comedian, and philanthropist whose untimely death at 29 on June 21, 2025, in Mangaluru has left a void in Karnataka’s cultural and charitable landscape. Known as the “Kalasiri Joker” for his standout performances on Zee Kannada’s Comedy Kiladigalu, Annappa captivated audiences with his humor and charisma, becoming a household name. Beyond the spotlight, he was the founder of Kalasiri Gombe Balaga (Regd.), Puttur, and a tireless advocate for the underprivileged.

Annappa’s journey to fame began on Comedy Kiladigalu, a popular Kannada comedy reality show, where his unique comedic style and vibrant energy as the Kalasiri Joker earned him widespread acclaim. His skits, infused with local flavor and wit, resonated with viewers, making him a beloved figure in Karnataka’s entertainment scene.

However, Annappa’s true legacy lies in his philanthropy. Through Sahaya Hastha Lokaseva Trust, he transformed his performances into acts of charity. Dressed in eye-catching costumes at village fairs and community events, he collected funds to support education for impoverished children and medical aid for the sick. His brainchild, Kalasiri Gombe Balaga, took this mission further, with annual puppet shows where Annappa and his troupe performed in elaborate costumes, channeling all earnings to families in need. His innovative approach to blending art and altruism touched countless lives in Puttur and beyond.

Despite his fame, Annappa remained grounded, letting his actions speak louder than his accolades. His passing has sparked an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow artists, and the communities he served. Annappa’s life is a powerful reminder that true greatness lies in using one’s talents to uplift others, often from behind a mask of humor.

Keywords: Annappa Puttur, Kalasiri Joker, Comedy Kiladigalu, Kalasiri Gombe Balaga, Puttur philanthropist, Zee Kannada, Sahaya Hastha Trust, Karnataka, obituary, jatre fundraiser, Bannoor artist, helping poor