Multi-faceted actor Manobala passed away on Wednesday shocking Tamil cinema fans and stars. The actor-filmmaker, who was suffering from liver-related ailments, breathed his last at his residence in Chennai, where he was undergoing treatment. The actor was 69.

Manobala was earlier admitted to Apollo Hospital in Chennai and was later shifted to his residence in Saligramam. He was unwell for the past fifteen days and stopped responding to treatment and breathed his last this afternoon.

Manobala, though known for his comedic roles, was a renowned director back in the 80s and 90s. He has directed Rajinikanth, Radhika, Suhasini, Prabhu, Sathyaraj, and Sivaji Ganesan. Oorkavalan, En Purushanthaan Enakku Mattumthaan, and Dhoorathu Pachai are some of his popular films.

Manobala has also shared screen space with leading actors of Tamil cinema like Dhanush, Suriya, Vijay, Karthi, and Jaya Ravi. He is best known for his roles in Yaaradi Nee Mohini, Siruthai, and Nanban. Though Manobala played small roles in films, he made a huge impact and garnered widespread popularity.

Superstar Rajinikanth, who acted in the Manobala directorial Oorkavalan, took to Twitter to convey condolences for the death of his dear friend. He wrote, “I am deeply saddened by the passing away of my dear friend Manobhala, a famous director and actor. My condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.”