KGF co-director Kirtan Nadagouda’s 4-year-old son Chiranjeevi dies in lift accident

KGF franchise co-director Kirtan Nadagouda is grieving a heartbreaking loss after his four-year-old son, Chiranjeevi Sonarsh K. Nadagowda, passed away on December 15, 2025, in a lift accident. The tragedy has left the filmmaker and his wife, Samriddhi Patel, devastated.

According to Kannada Prabha, the toddler became trapped in a lift, and despite immediate rescue attempts, he could not be saved. Family members and close friends described Chiranjeevi as a lively and cheerful child, whose sudden demise has left an irreparable void in the lives of his parents.

The news quickly spread, prompting condolences from the film fraternity and political figures. Actors, technicians, and well-wishers shared messages of support for the grieving family, expressing solidarity during this difficult time.

Kirtan Nadagouda has made a significant mark in Kannada cinema, primarily through his work on the KGF franchise. He served as second-unit director and assistant director under Prashanth Neel on blockbuster films including KGF: Chapter 1, KGF: Chapter 2, and Prabhas’ Salaar. Nadagouda’s contributions to the Yash-starrer films brought him recognition and respect within the industry.

In November 2025, Nadagouda announced his directorial debut with leading Telugu production house Mythri Movie Makers. The project, a horror film made in association with Prashanth Neel, was unveiled with a pooja ceremony video. While further details remain limited, the film is set to feature Surya Raj, Hanu Reddy, and Preethi Pagadala in lead roles, with Dinesh Divakaran as cinematographer.

As the shoot has not yet begun, it remains uncertain when Nadagouda will return to work following this personal tragedy. The sudden loss of his young son has understandably brought a pause to professional commitments, as the filmmaker and his family come to terms with the devastating event.

The incident serves as a somber reminder of life’s fragility, and the support from the industry and fans reflects the respect and empathy Nadagouda has earned over the years. For now, friends, family, and colleagues continue to extend their condolences, hoping to provide comfort to the grieving parents during this unimaginable loss.