Appu, a golden retriever that performed in thousands of shows staged by Shree KBR Drama Company
Vijaykumar said he had gone to Hubballi in 2011 to buy a labrador but chose Appu instead, paying about Rs 5,000. Because of Appu, said its stage presence matched that of a disciplined actor, audience member Virupalshappa Shirolshettar, who watched the play five times. Co-actors Chindodi Veeresh, Raghavendra Bengaluru, Murthy and Amruta said they had grown up with Appu and lost a beloved family member.
Company’s managing proprietor Chindodi Vijaykumar, who played the role of Saibaba, said Appu was an integral member of the troupe and also guarded its members and property. Company proprietor Chindodi Srikantesh said Appu never caused a nuisance on or off stage. Playback singer and Appu’s caretaker CV Hema said the company would not replace it with another dog but would alter the scene in future performances.
It remained in the green room during performances and entered the stage when its scene began. ‘Saibaba’ was the only play in which it appeared. only Appu performed on stage Although the company had several dogs. It was trained by Bagalkot district police dog squad.