Here's everything you need to know about Wilson Garden Naga, the notorious gangster seen in jail with actor Darshan: Report | Bengaluru

In a strange turn of events, a photograph of Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa enjoying a leisurely cup of tea with a history-sheeter named Wilson Garden Naga at the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru has created a stir on the internet.

The picture shows Darshan and Naga surrounded by some other inmates, having a casual conversation, drinking coffee and smoking cigarettes. But who exactly is this notorious character who shares prison camaraderie with the actor?

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Wilson Garden Naga, whose real name is J. Nagaraj, is a notorious gangster with a criminal resume longer than most prison menus. A native of Bengaluru, Naga has had a criminal career spanning over two decades, spanning a range of crimes including murder, extortion and robbery, according to India Today.

His most recent infamy includes his involvement in a bloody gang rivalry that ended with the murder of rival gangster Siddapura Mahesh outside the very prison where Darshan is currently being held.

Naga's criminal activities include charges in 23 cases, including seven murders. His past includes a violent encounter with another gangster, 'Kormangla Babbli', and ongoing trials on five different murder or attempt to murder charges, the report said. Adding to his extensive profile, Naga was also charged under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act in 2021.

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In a political twist, Naga had also made headlines ahead of the 2023 Karnataka assembly elections by visiting the residence of BJP minister V. Sommana, though Sommana denied any connection, the publication added. On August 18, 2024, Naga had surrendered to the court following Mahesh's murder and is currently under strict surveillance.

However, the viral photo has not only raised questions about prison protocols but also highlighted Naga's continued influence in Bengaluru's criminal underworld.

Actor Darshan is currently lodged in Parappana Agrahara Jail in connection with a murder case. The victim, 33-year-old Renukaswamy from Chitradurga, was found dead in Kamakshipalya, Bengaluru on June 9.