Veteran Kannada actress Jayanthi passed away on the early morning hours of Monday, July 26. She died during her sleep at her residence and the cause of death is said to be age-related ailments. Jayanthi was 76 years old when she breathed her last. The entire South Indian film industry is mourning the loss of the eminent actor and the fans are also sharing their heartfelt condolence messages on social media. BS Yediyurappa, Chief Minister of Karnataka, took to his official Facebook page to share his heartfelt message on the demise of actress Jayanthi.

His statement read, "The news of the demise of renowned senior artist, Abhinaya Sharade Jayanthi is very sad. Her contribution to the film industry is huge, and the Kannada art world has suffered a huge loss. May God rest her soul, give her family, and fans the strength to bear the pain". Jayanthi was popularly known as Abhinaya Sharadhe and was considered as one of the best actors in the South Indian film industry. Jayanthi made her debut as an actor in the Kannada industry with Jenu Goodu which released in 1963. The film was a commercial success.

While she majorly acted in Kannada movies, she was also a part of several movies in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi. Jayanthi has won 7 Karnataka State Awards for her impressive performances as an actor.

In Tamil, Jayanthi has acted in supporting roles in movies like Yaanai Paagan, Iruvar Ullam, Annai Illam, Padagoti, Karnan, Karthigai Deepam, Bama Vijayam, Ethir Neechal, Nootrukku Nooru, Velli Vizha, Devadhai, Maindhan, Gopala Gopala, Sengottai, Pudhalvan, Housefull, Annai Kaligambal, etc. Some of her best works in Kannada cinema include Edakallu Guddada Mele, Manassinanthe Mangalya, Dharma Dari Thappithu, Masanada Hoovu, Anand, Tuvvi Tuvvi Tuvvi, Thulasi, etc. Jayanthi also acted in the Tamil serial, Vasantham. Jayanthi has acted in over 500 films.