Belagavi businessman and philanthropist Kiran Nippanikar passed away in Varanasi on Thursday after suffering a fatal heart attack while on a pilgrimage. He was 47. He is survived by his mother, wife, and two children.
Family sources confirmed that his body is being flown from New Delhi, with the final rites scheduled for Friday.
While Nippanikar operated several eateries in Belagavi, he was widely recognized for his social contributions. He played a key role in organizing food distribution drives for the poor and homeless during the COVID-19 pandemic through the city’s hotels and restaurants.
His environmental efforts included lake rejuvenation projects, afforestation drives, and the transplantation of live trees. He led the relocation of 48 trees in and around Belagavi and oversaw the restoration of lakes in the Military Cantonment area.
As an active member of the St. Paul High School Alumni Association, he contributed to various sports and cultural activities. He was also a strong advocate against substance abuse.
Nippanikar frequently contributed to the news portal, where he conducted celebrity interviews and hosted a regular podcast. During the COVID-19 crisis, he ran daily explainer sessions, engaging with stakeholders to address public concerns and provide clarity on pandemic-related issues.
