Darshan and Controversies: Timeline of Karnataka’s bad boy

Bengaluru

Kannada superstar Darshan Thoogudeepa, adored by millions for his action-packed blockbusters, now stands as one of the most controversial figures in the Kannada film industry. His career, spanning over two decades, has been overshadowed by repeated brushes with the law — ranging from domestic disputes to wildlife offences and now a sensational murder case.

2011 –  First major scandal

Darshan’s first major controversy erupted on September 9, 2011, when his wife Vijayalakshmi accused him of domestic violence and attempted murder. The actor was arrested and spent 14 days in judicial custody at Parappana Agrahara Prison. He was released on bail after an emotional public reconciliation, but the episode marked the beginning of his legal troubles.

2016 – Marital discord resurfaces

Five years later, Vijayalakshmi again approached police complaining of Darshan’s “objectionable behaviour.” Though no case reached trial, the incident reignited public debate about the couple’s turbulent relationship.

2018 – Mysuru SUV crash

In the early hours of September 24, 2018, Darshan, fellow actor Devaraj, and a friend were injured when their SUV rammed a streetlight in Mysuru. The late-night accident raised questions about reckless driving and the actor’s lifestyle.

2021 – Hotel waiter assault allegation

Darshan faced fresh allegations in July 2021 when a hotel waiter in Mysuru accused him of assault. Reports claimed CCTV footage was deleted and the matter was quietly settled with ₹50,000 compensation, avoiding a formal court case.

2022 – Producer’s threat complaint

In 2022, film producer Bharat lodged a complaint alleging that Darshan threatened him over a professional dispute, adding yet another case to the star’s record.

2023 – Protected bird seizure

In January 2023, forest officials raided Darshan’s farm house near Mysuru and seized four bar-headed geese — a protected migratory species. Wildlife authorities booked a case under environmental laws.

Late 2023 – dog-bite FIR

Later in 2023, an FIR under IPC Section 289 was registered after a neighbour alleged being bitten by dogs owned by Darshan. The victim was compensated, and the matter did not escalate further.

January 2024 – Pub party FIR

Bengaluru police issued notices to Darshan and others in January 2024 after they were found partying beyond the 1 a.m. legal limit. The pub owners faced charges under Excise and Police Acts.

June 2024 – Renukaswamy murder case

The most serious controversy began in June 2024, when Darshan and actress Pavithra Gowda were arrested in connection with the kidnapping and murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy from Chitradurga. Police alleged the crime was triggered by obscene messages sent to Gowda. Multiple accomplices were arrested, and forensic evidence linked the actor’s associates to the crime scene.

Darshan was granted bail by the Karnataka High Court in December 2024, but his appearances at film events and alleged contact with a witness in April 2025 drew sharp criticism and suspicion of bail condition violations.

August 2025 – Supreme Court strikes back

On August 14, 2025, the Supreme Court cancelled Darshan’s bail, calling the High Court’s earlier decision a “perverse exercise of judicial power.” The bench ordered his immediate arrest and warned against any VIP treatment in custody.