Chennai: Popular south movie maker and actor Manobala died on Wednesday in Chennai, sources say. He was 69.
Manobala, a noted comedian who is also known for his supporting roles in Tamil movies, was reportedly suffering from pancreatic ailments.
Manobala collaborated with leading actors in Tamil cinema and was widely appreciated for his humorous roles.
His long-drawn career began in 1979 as an assistant to legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja’s movie Puthiya Vaarpugal.
Manobala acted in around 700 films and directed around 40 films alongside producing a clutch of movies, according to NDTV.
Some of his noted movies include Sethu, Pithamagan, Oorkavalan, Kaatrin Mozhi and Chakra.
The popular actor’s death caused a flood of condolences with notably super Rajinikanth tweeting that ‘I am saddened by the death of popular director, actor and my friend Manobala. My condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.'
Meanwhile, filmmaker Bharathiraja emotionally responded to Manobala’s death saying, 'My student Manobala's death is an irrepairable loss for me and the Tamil film industry.'
Veteran Comedian Charlie remembered Manobala as down to earth and affectionate, adding that he was like a brother to the actor.