Kannada actress Ranya Rao has found herself embroiled in controversy after she was arrested at Bengaluru Airport for possessing 14.8 kilogram of gold. She was held at Kempegowda International Airport on Sunday evening on charges of smuggling gold from Dubai. The arrest was made by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). She has been sent to 14 days of judicial custody by an economic offences court.
Who Is Ranya Rao?
33-year-old, Ranya Rao is an Indian actress and model. She primarily works in South Indian film industry. She made her acting debut in 2014 with Kannada film, Maanikya. She hails from the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. She completed her schooling in Bengaluru. She holds an engineering degree from Dayananda Sagar College of Engineering in Bangalore.
Ranya is the stepdaughter of a senior IPS officer from Karnataka, K. Ramachandra Rao. He currently serves as Director-General of Police (DGP) at Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation.
She was signed by actor and director Sudeep in 2014 for his directorial Kannada film, ‘Maanikya.’ Her performance gained mixed reviews from critics. She signed her second and first Tamil film, Wagah on June 2015. Ranya was cast opposite actor Ganesh in Kannada comedy film, ‘Pataki’ in 2017.
What Led To Her Arrest?
Ranya had been under surveillance due to her frequent international travel. Cops were suspicious after her visit to Dubai four times in 15 days. This prompted a targeted operation upon her return to Bengaluru. It was revealed in the investigation, that Ranya tried to smuggle gold by wearing a significant portion of it and concealing gold bars in her clothes. The value of 14.8 kg of gold, is estimated worth over ₹ 12 crore.
However, in a recent update Karnataka Director General of Police (DGP) Alok Mohan has clarified his stance regarding his stepdaughter, actress Ranya Rao, amid an ongoing controversy. Addressing media reports, the top cop stated that Ranya got married four months ago and has not visited their home since. His remarks come as speculation surrounding her personal life and alleged involvement in certain issues has gained traction. By distancing himself from the matter, the DGP appears to be setting clear personal boundaries, emphasizing that her actions are independent of his influence
