Bengaluru: Kannada actress Ranya Rao detained for smuggling gold

Kannada actress Ranya Rao was detained by customs officials at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport on the night of March 4, 2025, for allegedly smuggling gold. The actress, who is the daughter of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Ramachandra Rao, had arrived from Dubai on the night of March 3. Upon her arrival, officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) apprehended her for reportedly bringing excess gold into the country. She was then taken to the DRI office in Nagawara for further questioning.

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Born on May 28, 1993, in Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, Ranya Rao made her acting debut in the 2014 Kannada film Manikya, starring alongside Kiccha Sudeep. She later played the role of a journalist in the 2017 Kannada comedy Pataki, featuring actor Ganesh. Her filmography also includes the Tamil movie Wagah.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in preventing gold smuggling at Indian airports. In recent times, there have been multiple attempts to illegally transport gold into the country, leading to increased vigilance by customs officials.

As the investigation continues, more details regarding Ranya Rao’s alleged involvement and the circumstances of the case are awaited.