In a shocking incident that has rattled the Kannada film industry and local residents, a popular Kannada actress, Chaitra R, was allegedly kidnapped by her estranged husband, Harshavardhan, in a desperate bid to gain custody of their one-year-old daughter.
Estranged Husband Accused of Kidnapping Actress
According to a complaint filed by Chaitra’s sister, Leela R, the actress married Harshavardhan, owner of Vardhan Enterprises and a film producer, in 2023. The couple reportedly separated seven to eight months ago due to ongoing marital disputes. Post-separation, Chaitra shifted to a rented house on Magadi Road in Bengaluru with their daughter, while Harshavardhan stayed in Hassan.
The ‘Alleged’ Kidnapping Plan
On December 7, 2025, Chaitra informed her family that she was travelling to Mysuru for a shooting assignment. However, as per the complaint, the trip was allegedly orchestrated by Harshavardhan through his associate, Kaushik, who reportedly paid the actress an advance of Rs 20,000.
Chaitra was allegedly lured to the Mysuru Road Metro Station in Bengaluru at around 8 am, where she was forcibly taken by Harshavardhan, Kaushik, and another unidentified individual. She was then allegedly driven via NICE Road and Bidadi, according to the FIR.
Family Receives Chilling Ultimatum
By 10:30 am, Chaitra managed to alert her friend, Girish, who informed her family about the abduction. Later in the day, Harshavardhan allegedly contacted Chaitra’s mother, Siddamma, admitting to the kidnapping and issuing a chilling ultimatum: the child must be brought to a location specified by him, or Chaitra would not be released.
Harshavardhan reportedly later reached out to another relative, asking them to bring the child to Arsikere, assuring the actress’s safe release. The family, initially scattered across Tiptur and Bengaluru, regrouped and approached the police.
Police Investigations Underway
Bengaluru police have registered a case against Harshavardhan, Kaushik, and another accused for kidnapping and criminal intimidation. Investigations are currently ongoing to locate the actress and ensure her safe return. Authorities are examining CCTV footage and mobile communications to trace the accused and the child.
Public Shock and Industry Response
The alleged kidnapping has sent shockwaves across Bengaluru and the Kannada film industry. Fans and colleagues have expressed concern over the safety of actors and the rising tension in personal disputes spilling into public violence.
ALSO READ: Aroop Biswas Resigns as West Bengal Sports Minister Following Chaos During Messi Visit To Kolkata
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience covering Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes that every voice matters, and journalism has a vital role to play in amplifying those voices. Sofia is committed to creating impact and shedding light on stories that truly matter. Beyond her work in the newsroom, she is also a music enthusiast who enjoys singing.
