Chennai: Well-known Tamil actor-director Manobala died here on Wednesday following illness, film industry sources said. Various film personalities, including superstar Rajinikanth condoled his death. The 69-year old veteran actor was hospitalised in Chennai's Apollo Hospital. The actor underwent angio-treatment in January and was admitted to the hospital citing liver issues.
Manobala (69) started off his career as a director, making movies with top stars including Rajinikanth, Vijayakanth and Sathyaraj. He had of late ventured into acting, largely confining himself to comic roles and featured in a number of movies with top actors including Vijay and Dhanush. He has also produced a couple of films.
In a tweet, Rajinikanth expressed grief over the death of his "dear friend" and extended his sympathies with the family of the deceased. "Shocking & it's unbelievable such a sweet person & a good friend #Manobala sir passed away. Heartfelt condolences to the family. May his soul rest in peace," film producer Dr Dhananjayan said in a tweet.
The actor has also had a stint directing films such as Agaya Gangai, Pillai Nila, Oorkavalan - which starred Rajnikanth, and Mallu Vetti Minor. Manobala was last seen in the projects "Kondraal Paavam" and "Ghosty".
The actor became well-known for his comic timing in the early 2000s due to his appearance and unique approach towards dialogue delivery. His frame of work includes hits such as Pithamagan, Chandramukhi, Tamizh Padam, Aranmanai franchise and Ambala. The actor has appeared in more than 700 films and has collaborated with various comic actors such as Vivek, Vadivelu, and Santhanam for various projects. (With Agency Inputs)
