Tamil cinema’s beloved dog star Karuppi dies from Diwali firework noise. Vets on how to calm pets
Karuppi from the acclaimed 2018 Tamil film "Pariyerum Perumal" met a heartbreaking end. Terrified by the explosive sounds of firecrackers, Karuppi fled her home in Tirunelveli and was fatally struck by a bus.
This incident mirrors her on-screen fate in the movie, where Karuppi’s character suffers a brutal end tied to railway tracks, symbolizing the impact of caste-based violence in rural India. For fans and crew members who grew close to her during filming, Karuppi's death was not only a loss of a talented animal but a symbol of innocence and purity in both reel and real life.
Karuppi, a native Tamil Nadu breed with distinct black fur, became a poignant symbol in Pariyerum Perumal, representing the many innocent victims of caste oppression.
Chosen specifically by director Mari Selvaraj, who wanted a black dog for its symbolic resonance, Karuppi’s friendly nature made her a cherished member of the cast and crew. She connected particularly well with actor Kathir, who played the film’s protagonist, Pariyan, and who had previously expressed a deep bond with her.
Following her appearance in the film, Karuppi captured the hearts of audiences and became an icon for her role, with her image prominently featured in the movie’s posters.
Karuppi’s untimely death also highlights a pressing issue during festive seasons in India— the annual casualties of pets and street animals due to the excessive noise of firecrackers.
Although animal rights groups, including Blue Cross India, have long campaigned for quieter celebrations to protect animals, these efforts often go unheeded. Each Diwali, reports of pets becoming disoriented, fleeing, or suffering fatal accidents due to loud firecrackers flood social media, underscoring a widespread
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