Kannada actress Ranya Rao was apprehended for allegedly smuggling nearly 15 kg of gold at the Bengaluru Airport. The case has brought the spotlight on her husband, Jatin Hukkeri.
Ranya Rao’s husband Jatin Hukkeri is an architect hailing from Bengaluru. (Facebook)
Kannada actress Ranya Rao sent shockwaves across the country after she was arrested at Bengaluru Airport in connection with an alleged gold smuggling case. Rao was caught carrying nearly 15 kg of gold hidden in her clothing when she was apprehended.
Rao, the stepdaughter of Director General of Police (Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation) Ramachandra Rao, was under the radar of authorities due to frequent travel to Dubai. She allegedly travelled to the city 30 times over the past year, and four times in 15 days, bringing back kilos of gold each time.
Following her arrest, the Bengaluru Directorate of Revenue Intelligence recovered gold jewellery worth Rs 2.06 crore and Rs 2.67 crore in cash from her Bengaluru home during raids. She has been remanded to 14-day judicial custody following the arrest.
The case, touted as one of the biggest gold seizures in Karnataka, has also brought increased scrutiny on Rao’s husband, Jatin Hukkeri. Police have alleged that he frequently travelled with the actress to Dubai, from where she allegedly smuggled gold.
Hukkeri married Ranya Rao in a high-profile marriage around four months ago at Taj West End, after which they settled into a high-end apartment in Bengaluru’s upscale Lavelle Road.
ALSO READ: How Much Gold, Cash Are You Allowed To Carry On Domestic, Foreign Flights? Customs Rules Explained
Who Is Jatin Hukkeri?
Hukkeri is an architect by profession, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and Interior Design from RV College of Engineering in Bengaluru. He pursued further studies at the Royal College of Art – Executive Education, London, specialising in Disruptive Market Innovation.
Jatin initially made a mark in Bengaluru’s restaurant industry with his innovative designs before expanding his influence across India and London, according to Della Leaders Club (DLC). He also founded companies WDA & DECODE LLC as well as Craft CoDe.
“Experienced Architectural Designer with a demonstrated history of working in the Hospitality Architecture & planning industry. Skilled in Architectural Interiors, Custom Interiors, Recreation, Design, and Entertainment. Strong arts and design professional graduated from Royal College of Art, London,” says his LinkedIn page.
ALSO READ: Prominent Politician Involved In Ranya Rao Gold Smuggling Case? What We Know So Far
One of his notable projects is Hangover, a cocktail bar and diner in Bengaluru. He describes the concept as “path-breaking,” focusing on its simple yet innovative spatial design. The establishment is open on all sides across both floors to enhance visitor experience.
Additionally, his client portfolio in Bengaluru includes Bangalore XOOX, Brewmill, and Olive Beach and he also has projects in Delhi and Mumbai.
How Ranya Rao Managed Operations?
Ranya Rao is alleged to have used her stepfather’s name and contacts to evade customs checks on arrival at the Kempegowda airport each time she was smuggling gold.
According to sources, Ranya Rao had travelled to Dubai four times in 15 days, prompting authorities to conduct a targeted operation upon her return. In addition to this, she was seen wearing the same clothes every time she travelled to Dubai.
However, Rao, during the investigation, claimed that she was blackmailed into smuggling gold. The police also detained Constable Basavaraju and recorded a statement regarding his involvement in helping Rao at the airport.
Meanwhile, her stepfather expressed his disappointment and shock. “She got married four months ago and has not visited us since. We have no knowledge of her or her husband’s business, he said, adding that there is no black mark on his career and he will let law take its course.
Rao is known for her role opposite Kannada superstar Sudeep in ‘Maanikya’ (2014). Ranya Rao ventured beyond Kannada cinema in 2016, making her Tamil debut with Wagah, a romantic drama where she starred opposite Vikram Prabhu.
