Sandalwood designer Pallavi Lakshmikanth dies suddenly; Bigg Boss Mallamma left shocked

Bengaluru: Popular Sandalwood fashion designer and Rishi Design owner Pallavi Lakshmikanth died suddenly on Sunday, sending shockwaves through the Kannada film, television and fashion industries. The cause of her death has not yet been disclosed.

Pallavi was not just known for designing outfits for several Kannada film and television personalities, but also for the support she extended to Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 contestant Mallamma.

Mallamma, who entered the Bigg Boss house as the third contestant and won viewers over with her simple and candid personality, had moved to Bengaluru from north Karnataka. Pallavi had provided Mallamma with a place to stay and also offered her a job at her boutique. She reportedly treated Mallamma like a member of her family rather than an employee.

Pallavi, along with television actor Manoj Kumar, played an important role in supporting Mallamma’s journey to the Bigg Boss platform. Host Kiccha Sudeep had also publicly acknowledged Pallavi’s contribution and her selfless support for Mallamma during the latter’s appearances on the show.

After her exit from the Bigg Boss house, Mallamma had spoken with gratitude and affection about “Pallavi Madam” in several interviews. Pallavi continued to remain closely associated with Mallamma even after the reality show. She personally welcomed Mallamma after her eviction and later made a surprise visit to her home, where she organised a celebration.

The duo’s reels and videos on social media had also attracted considerable attention, giving fans a glimpse of their close bond.

Apart from her association with Mallamma, Pallavi had built a name for herself in the fashion industry through Rishi Design and had styled several Sandalwood actors, actresses and other prominent personalities.

Following news of her sudden demise, friends, fans and members of the Kannada entertainment industry took to social media to express their condolences. Mallamma is also said to be deeply affected by the loss of the person who had stood by her during a crucial phase of her life.