Well-known Tamil director, producer and actor Manobala passed away in Chennai today. He was 69.
He had been keeping unwell for the last 10 days and was under treatment at his residence in Saligramam, Chennai. He is survived by his wife Usha and son Harish.
Sources close to the actor told South First that the actor passed away at 1 pm on Wednesday, 3 April. The time and place of the last rites would be announced shortly.
Manobala directed over 40 films, 16 television serials and three films for television. He also acted in over 300 movies in various languages, including Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam.
The ace comedian was known for his sense of humour, comic timing, and sharp retorts.
His performances in several films were well appreciated. Some of the movies that fetched him recognition include Pithamagan and those from the Aranmanai franchise.
Manobala debuted as a producer with the critically acclaimed superhit film Sathuranga Vettai (Chess Hunt, 2014) which won him SIIMA Award for best debut producer.
His next production venture Paambhu Sattai (Snake Skin, 2017) was a low-profile release. However, the release of Aravind Swami and Trisha-starrer Sathuranga Vettai 2 — a sequel to Sathuranga Vettai — has been delayed.
The news of Manobala’s death plunged the Tamil film industry into gloom. Several celebrities, including veteran director Bharathiraja, actors Rajinikanth and Silambarasan, expressed their condolences to his family.
பிரபல இயக்குநரும், நடிகருமான, அருமை நண்பர் மனோபாலாவுடைய இறப்பு எனக்கு மிகவும் வேதனை அளிக்கிறது. அவருடைய குடும்பத்தினருக்கு என்னுடைய அனுதாபங்கள். அவரது ஆத்மா சாந்தியடையட்டும்.@manobalam
— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) May 3, 2023
Shattered to put a tweet about Manobala Sir’s death. I just spoke to him last week. Sometimes I don’t realise God’s design.
May his soul RIP & May his family stay strong during these difficult times.
— Vishal (@VishalKOfficial) May 3, 2023
RIP #manobala sir. Always my sweet friend! pic.twitter.com/XVXtmwcV6Q
— selvaraghavan (@selvaraghavan) May 3, 2023
Extremely shocked to hear this news. A man who can be everywhere and for everyone. Miss you Manobala sir. #RIP
— Karthi (@Karthi_Offl) May 3, 2023
Heartbreaking to hear that Director/Actor #Manobala sir is no longer with us.
Was a true pleasure to work with you sir!
You will be surely missed! 💔
Condolences to family, friends and loved ones…#RIPManobala pic.twitter.com/Ou2QBGsYLs— Gautham Karthik (@Gautham_Karthik) May 3, 2023
