What was Harish Rai's role in the KGF franchise?

Harish Rai played the character of Khasim, Rocky Bhai's chacha, in the KGF franchise.

What other notable film did Harish Rai appear in?

Harish Rai also portrayed a don named Roy in the 1995 Kannada film Om, starring Shivarajkumar.

How did Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar respond to Harish Rai's passing?

D.K. Shivakumar expressed his condolences, calling Harish Rai's death an "extremely sorrowful event" and praising the actor's wonderful performances.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Beloved KGF Franchise Star Harish Rai Passes Away After Battle with Thyroid Cancer

Beloved KGF Franchise Star Harish Rai Passes Away After Battle with Thyroid Cancer

6 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Veteran Kannada actor Harish Rai dies at 55 after prolonged cancer battle
Rai was known for roles in KGF franchise and Shivarajkumar's Om
Karnataka Deputy CM pays tribute, calls Rai's death a "sorrowful event"

On November 6, 2025, the Kannada film industry mourned the loss of veteran actor Harish Rai, who passed away at the age of 55 after a prolonged battle with thyroid cancer. Rai was widely recognized for his portrayal of Khasim, Rocky Bhai's chacha, in the popular KGF franchise, as well as his role as a don named Roy in the 1995 film Om, starring Shivarajkumar.

According to a Deccan Herald report, Rai's cancer had spread from his thyroid to his stomach, leading to his untimely demise. Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, expressed his condolences in a social media post, describing Rai's passing as an "extremely sorrowful event" and praising the actor's wonderful performances in films like Om, Hello Yama, KGF, and KGF 2.