(This article is authored by Alar)

The Tamil film industry is mourning the loss of one of its most versatile and beloved actors, Manobala, who passed away on Wednesday in Chennai. He was 69 years old. 

He breathed his last on Wednesday morning at his residence. Reports claim that the veteran actor was suffering from liver issues. Manobala had also suffered from chest pain before and underwent an angio-treatment in January.

Manobala started his career as an assistant director to Bharathiraja in the late 1970s and made his directorial debut with Agaya Gangai in 1982. He went on to direct several hit films such as Pillai Nila, Oorkavalan and Mallu Vetti Minor, among others.

He also proved his mettle as a comedian and a character actor in hundreds of films, with his unique dialogue delivery and wiry frame. Some of his memorable roles include Pithamagan, Ice, Chandramukhi, Yaaradi Nee Mohini, Thamizh Padam, Alex Pandian, the Aranmanai franchise and Aambala.

He was last seen in Waltair Veerayya, the blockbuster film starring Chiranjeevi and Ravi Teja, which released on January 14. Manobala is survived by his wife and two sons. The film fraternity and fans have expressed their shock and grief over his demise and have offered their condolences to his family.