KGF Co-Director Kirtan Nadagouda’s Young Son Dies in Tragic Lift Accident

A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the family of filmmaker Kirtan Nadagouda, best known for his work as co-director on the blockbuster KGF franchise. His four and a half year old son, Sonarsh K Nadagouda, passed away after being trapped in a lift, according to reports.

The incident reportedly occurred on Monday. While detailed circumstances surrounding the accident remain unclear, the child’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the film fraternity. The family has not yet released an official statement.

Pawan Kalyan Expresses Grief

Actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan confirmed the tragic news and shared an emotional condolence message on social media. He described the loss as deeply painful and extended his sympathies to Kirtan Nadagouda and his wife, Samriddhi Patel.

In his message, Pawan Kalyan said he was profoundly saddened by the passing of young Sonarsh, who reportedly lost his life after getting stuck in a lift. He prayed for strength and courage for the bereaved parents to cope with the immense loss.

దర్శకుడు శ్రీ కీర్తన్ నాదగౌడ కుమారుడి దుర్మరణం మనస్తాపం కలిగించింది

తెలుగు, కన్నడ భాషల్లో దర్శకుడిగా పరిచయమవుతున్న శ్రీ కీర్తన్ నాదగౌడ కుటుంబంలో చోటు చేసుకున్న విషాదం ఎంతో ఆవేదనకు లోను చేసింది. శ్రీ కీర్తన్, శ్రీమతి సమృద్ధి పటేల్ దంపతుల కుమారుడు చిరంజీవి సోనార్ష్ కె.నాదగౌడ…— Deputy CMO, Andhra Pradesh (@APDeputyCMO) December 15, 2025

Industry in Mourning

According to a report by Kannada Prabha, the accident took place earlier this week. The news has left many in the Kannada and Telugu film industries shaken, with colleagues and well-wishers expressing silent grief and solidarity with the family.

Kirtan Nadagouda has built a strong reputation behind the scenes, having worked in the direction departments of several Kannada films. He gained wide recognition as second-unit director and co-director on films helmed by Prashanth Neel, including Salaar.

He is currently preparing for his directorial debut a Telugu horror film backed by Mythri Movie Makers and Prashanth Neel. The project was officially launched just last month, making the personal loss even more devastating.

The entire film community continues to mourn the tragic passing of young Sonarsh, extending heartfelt condolences to the family during this unimaginably difficult time.