Darshan's Wife Vijayalakshmi Appeals for Calm Amid Actor's Arrest in Murder Case

On Wednesday, Vijayalakshmi, the wife of Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, appealed to his fans to remain calm and respect the legal process as her husband remains in judicial custody. The actor, along with 16 others, faces charges for the murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, whose body was discovered near a storm-water drain in Sumanahalli on June 9.

Vijayalakshmi shared her message on Instagram following a meeting with Darshan in custody. In her post, she addressed the actor's fans—whom Darshan refers to as "celebrities"—urging them to stay calm and focus on doing good deeds during this period.

She stated that she had spoken with Darshan in detail about the situation outside, noting that the conversation had "touched his heart." She expressed confidence that Darshan would be in the fans' prayers and emphasized their family's faith in the judicial system.

In her post, Vijayalakshmi also issued a warning to detractors. She wrote that she firmly believes those attempting to harm Darshan through words or actions during his absence will be "taken care of by Mother Chamundeshwari."

The appeal comes amid rising tensions and police action against Darshan’s followers. Bengaluru police have received increasing complaints regarding the actor’s fans, some of whom have reportedly issued online death threats and harassed individuals speaking out against Darshan. Kannada actor Pritam recently filed a police complaint after receiving such threats.

According to police investigations, Renukaswamy was allegedly tortured and killed after sending obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda, Darshan's friend. Gowda is also among the 17 accused currently facing charges in connection with the June 9 murder.