Bengaluru police have registered a case against Harshavardhan. (Photo: X)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes journalism plays a crucial role in amplifying unheard voices and bringing attention to issues that truly matter. Sofia has contributed articles to The New Indian Express, Youth Ki Awaaz, and Maktoob Media. She is also a recipient of the 2025 Laadli Media Awards for gender sensitivity. Beyond the newsroom, she is a music enthusiast who enjoys singing. Connect with Sofia on X: https://x.com/SBCism
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