ACTOR PANDIAN PASSED AWAY

by, N.Thyagarajan.

Pandian, who was introduced by ‘Director Bharathiraja, passed away this morning in Madurai. The actor, aged 48, was suffering from kidney problems after an attack of jaundice last year and had been admitted to the Apollo Hospital, Madurai.

Pandian made his debut in Bharathiraja’s Man Vaasanai and starred in successful movies like Aan Paavam and Pudhumai Penn. He was a most sought-after hero in the late 80’s. He has also acted with ‘Superstar’ Rajinikanth in Guru Sishyan as his brother. However, his career went on a decline after a string of flops.

It was Bharathiraja again who gave a second lease of life to the struggling actor by casting him as a villain in his acclaimed Kizhakku Cheemaiyilae. The film won much kudos for the actor. The actor was also active in politics for some time.

The last rites of the actor will be performed in Madurai, sources said. Various Kollywood personalities and political leaders offered their condolences to the actor’s family members.

In a press release at Chennai, AIADMK chief Jayalalithaa expressed grief over the death and recalled Pandian's services to the party.