Kannada actor Kichcha Sudeepa has purchased half an acre of land near Kengeri, Bengaluru, to construct a memorial and viewing center dedicated to the legendary Kannada actor Vishnuvardhan. The announcement was made by Veerakaputra Srinivas, a close associate of the Vishnuvardhan fan community, during a press conference. The foundation stone ceremony is scheduled for September 18, coinciding with Vishnuvardhan's birth anniversary. A model of the memorial is expected to be unveiled on September 2, which is Sudeep's birthday. The upcoming memorial will include a 25-feet tall statue.

This decision comes in the wake of the demolition of a previous memorial dedicated to Vishnuvardhan at Abhiman Studio. The demolition triggered widespread outrage among fans and members of the Kannada film industry. Since Vishnuvardhan's death in 2009, the site at Abhiman Studio had served as a place for his admirers to pay their respects. However, due to reported disputes over the ownership and use of the studio premises, the memorial was razed earlier this year, restricting public access.

Sudeep expressed his disappointment and resolve following the demolition, stating his readiness to do whatever it takes to preserve Vishnuvardhan's resting place. He emphasized that Vishnuvardhan is more than just a name, but an emotion and a lifelong respect. Sudeep had also offered to bear any costs required to save the previous memorial. He urged fans to focus on creating a lasting tribute instead of pleading with authorities.

Veerakaputra Srinivas clarified that the new memorial will not replace the sacredness of the original samadhi nor match the grandeur of the official government-built memorial in Mysuru. However, it is being created from the emotional investment of Vishnuvardhan's fans. Srinivas also stated that the land at Abhiman Studio should undergo a judicial inquiry and be preserved as a cultural site for the public.

Vishnuvardhan, who passed away in December 2009 at the age of 59, was a prominent figure in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Hindi films. His last rites were held at Abhiman Studio, where the demolished memorial was later built. The site included an eight-foot statue and was considered a place of respect for fans. A new memorial for Vishnuvardhan has been under construction in Mysuru for the last five years, planned to include his personal belongings and other memorabilia.