Pavithra Gowda, the Kannada actress at the centre of the Renukaswamy murder case, appeared before the Karnataka High Court on Thursday, August 13. The actress, who is currently in custody in connection with the case, appeared through video conference along with other accused, including Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa.
During the hearing, the judge questioned Pavithra after she appeared late for the proceedings and was seen using headphones. When she denied using them, the judge reportedly told her that he had personally seen her wearing the headphones and questioned who had allowed her to use them inside the women’s cell.
What Happened With Pavithra Gowda During The Hearing?
The hearing took place as the legal battle in the Renukaswamy murder case continues. Darshan’s lawyers had approached the Karnataka High Court challenging an earlier order of the 59th City Civil and Sessions Court, while the accused who remain in custody appeared through video conference.
Pavithra joined the proceedings late which prompted the judge to question her about the delay. The court then noticed that she appeared to be using headphones.
The judge wanted to know who had given her permission to use them and whether headphones were permitted inside the women’s prison cell during court proceedings. Pavithra reportedly denied using headphones but the judge maintained that he had seen her using them.
The exchange also raised questions about the monitoring of inmates during virtual court appearances. The court directed prison officials to submit a written explanation regarding the matter.
What Is Pavithra Gowda’s Role In The Renukaswamy Murder Case?
Pavithra is listed as Accused No. 1 in the case, while Darshan is Accused No. 2.
According to the police investigation, the case began after Renukaswamy, a 33-year-old man from Chitradurga, allegedly sent obscene and offensive messages to Pavithra on social media. Investigators allege that the messages became the reason behind the subsequent events that led to his abduction and murder.
The prosecution has alleged that Renukaswamy was brought to Bengaluru where he was assaulted and later died. Police have accused Pavithra of being involved in the conspiracy and of playing a role in the events that preceded the killing.
These remain allegations before the court, and the trial and legal proceedings are continuing.
How Is Darshan Connected To Pavithra Gowda?
Pavithra and Darshan have been linked for several years, with their relationship becoming a matter of public attention even before the murder case.
In January 2024, Pavithra shared a social media video featuring pictures of herself with Darshan and referred to their relationship having completed 10 years. The post drew considerable attention because Darshan is married to Vijayalakshmi.
Their relationship later became relevant to the Renukaswamy case because of the alleged messages sent by the victim to Pavithra and the police’s theory about what followed.
Who Is Pavithra Gowda?
Pavithra is a Kannada actress, model and fashion entrepreneur. She primarily worked in the Kannada film industry and has also appeared in television projects.
She made her acting debut with the 2013 Kannada film Chatrigalu Saar Chatrigalu. She subsequently appeared in films including Agamya, Preethi Kithabu and Saaguva Daariyalli. She also featured in the Tamil film 54321, which was released in 2016.
What Does Pavithra Gowda Do Besides Acting?
Pavithra is associated with Red Carpet Studio 777, a fashion boutique in Bengaluru. Her work in the fashion space has been another significant part of her professional life outside the film industry.
She has also been described as a model and fashion designer.
