Indian actor Puneeth Rajkumar died of cardiac arrest on Friday, according to a hospital in the city of Bangalore.

"Mr. Puneet Rajkumar, aged 46 years was brought to Vikram Hospital on 29/10/21 with a diagnosis of heart attack with ECG done by a family doctor. At the time of arrival to the emergency, the patient was unresponsive and was in cardiac asystole," the Vikram Hospital said in a statement.

"In spite of prolonged advanced and aggressive measures, the patient continued to be non-responsive and asystolic. The panel of medical experts extended all efforts to save him. He was declared dead at 2.30pm (local)," the hospital added.

Rajkumar was a popular actor, starring as lead actor in 29 films. He was also a well-known television presenter, singer and producer known for his work in Kannada cinema, which makes movies and television in the Kannada language spoken in the southwestern state of Karnataka, CNN noted.

The Indian actor was a highly involved activist. As a brand ambassador for the campaign “Education is power,” Rajkumar fought for the right to education for children between six to 14 years old, The New Indian Express revealed.

Many of his fans have taken it to Twitter to express their condolences, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"A cruel twist of fate has snatched away from us a prolific and talented actor, Puneeth Rajkumar. This was no age to go. The coming generations will remember him fondly for his works and wonderful personality. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," Modi said.

Thousands of fans have also gathered at the Kanteerava Stadium to pay their respects for Rajkumar.

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