(This article is authored by Alar) 

The Tamil film industry is mourning the loss of Sevvazhai Raasu, a veteran comedian who passed away at the age of 70 due to health issues. He was best known for his role as Ponanthinni in the critically acclaimed film Paruthiveeran, directed by Ameer and starring Karthi and Priyamani.

Sevvazhai Raasu, whose real name was Sevvalai Raj, hailed from a village in Theni district and belonged to a farming family. He made his debut in Bharathiraja’s Kizhakku Cheemayile, where he played an uncredited role as a villager. He then went on to act in many films set in rural backgrounds and earned the nickname Sevvazhai (red apple) for his fair complexion.

His breakthrough role came in Paruthiveeran, which won several national awards and accolades. He played the comic sidekick of Karthi’s character, who is a violent and rebellious youth in love with his cousin Priyamani. Sevvazhai Raasu’s hilarious dialogues and expressions made him a household name and won him many fans. He also acted in other films like Maina and Kandasamy in supporting roles.

He was suffering from health issues for some time and was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Madurai. He breathed his last on Thursday, leaving behind his three children. The late actor's body is taken to Korayuthu village in his hometown Theni and kept for burial.