(This article is authored by Alar)

Legendary South Indian actor, Ajith Kumar, is mourning the loss of his father, P. Subramaniam, who passed away in the early hours of the morning after a prolonged illness. The Kumar family has released a joint statement expressing their heartfelt gratitude for the medical professionals who provided care and support to their beloved father during his illness.

The statement further elaborates on the family's deep appreciation for the outpouring of condolences and kind messages they have received from fans and well-wishers during this difficult time. The Kumar siblings have also requested for privacy as they grieve and deal with their father's passing with dignity and equanimity.

The statement reads, "Our father, PS Mani, passed away in the early hours of this morning, in his sleep, after a long illness. He was 85. We are grateful for the care and support provided to him and our family by a number of medical professionals, especially following his debilitating stroke of four years ago."

"We are comforted, at this time of grief, that he lived a good life and knew the undying love of our mother, his partner of nearly six decades. We appreciate the kind, comforting messages and condolences that have been coming in and ask for your understanding if we may not be able to take calls or respond to messages in a timely manner. His last rites will be a family affair. We trust that all who have known loss will respect our wish to grieve privately and deal with his passing with as much equanimity and dignity as possible."

The actor's father was 85 years old and was suffering from paralysis and other age-related ailments. According to reports, Ajith Kumar learned of his father's passing while on vacation in Europe with his wife Shalini and children. 

Official statement from Actor Ajith Kumar and his brothers about the passing away of their father..#RIPPSManiSir pic.twitter.com/ITqySzzhBc

— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) March 24, 2023