**Raju Talikote** (born Rajesaba Maktumasab Yankanchi; 1963 – October 13, 2025) was an Indian actor, theatre practitioner, and comedian who worked prominently in Kannada cinema. Celebrated for his distinct North Karnataka dialect, sharp rustic humor, and unmatched comedic timing, he became one of Sandalwood's most beloved and unique character artists. Born in Chikka Sindagi in the Vijayapura district of Karnataka, Talikote spent decades performing in professional touring theatre companies. He ran the popular Khasgateshwara Natya Sangha troop and achieved massive regional acclaim with hit comedic stage plays such as *Kaliyugada Kuduka*, which humorously explored everyday struggles through satire and later became a sensation across rural drama tents and audio cassettes. Talikote broke into mainstream Kannada cinema with Yogaraj Bhat's romantic comedy drama *Manasaare* (2009). His performance as a fellow patient in a psychiatric facility earned him widespread praise, launching his career as a sought-after character comic. He quickly followed up with prominent roles in landmark hits such as *Pancharangi* (2010), *Jackie* (2010), *Lifeu Ishtene* (2011), *Rajadhani* (2011), *Charminar* (2013), and Upendra's *Topiwala* (2013). Alongside his film career, Talikote reached wider family audiences as a contestant on *Bigg Boss Kannada Season 7* in 2019, where his candid personality and quick wit endeared him to viewers across Karnataka. He continued acting across stage and screen until his sudden passing from cardiac arrest in October 2025, leaving behind a cherished comedic legacy deeply rooted in North Karnataka culture.
