Veteran Tamil actor-filmmaker Manobala has passed away on Wednesday, May 3, at his L. V. Prasad Road residence in Chennai. He was 69. The news has been confirmed by actor G. M. Kumar of Avan Ivan fame, who took to social media to reveal the sad news. Manobala had been admitted for liver problems in a private hospital in Chennai and was undergoing treatment at his home. Details regarding his last rites and funeral proceedings are currently being awaited. He is survived by wife, Usha, and son, Harish
- Popular comedy actor-director Manobala gets hospitalized - here's why! Latest health update!
- 10 years of Thuppakki - 'Thalapathy' Vijay's fans in celebration mode! Here's what producer Kalaippuli S. Thanu has to say!
- Comedian Yogi Babu steps out of his comfort zone for his next project - all deets here!!
- The much-awaited Private Party Video song from Sivakarthikeyan's Don out now!
Manobala Sir passed away😪😪😪
— G.M. Kumar (@gmkhighness) May 3, 2023
Manobala's lat major big-screen appearance was in the recently-released Tamil comedy film, Ghosty, starring Kajal Aggarwal in the lead role. Admired for his performances in comedy and character-driven roles over the years, the Tamil cinema veteran had started his career in the film industry as an assistant to legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja, before he ventured into direction in 1982 with Agaya Gangai. Manobala has since then directed several notable films namely Pillai Nila, Vetri Padigal, Mallu Vetti Minor, and Moondrezhuthil En Moochirukkum. Manobala has also directed Tamil cinema stalwarts like 'Nadigar Thilagam' Sivaji Ganesan in Paarambariyam (1993) and 'Superstar' Rajinikanth in Oorkavalan (1987) during the course of his illustrious career.
Apart from acting and film-making, Manobala also made a name for himself in film production and bankrolled the smash hit 2014 heist film, Sathuranga Vettai, which incidentally marked the directorial debut of H. Vinoth, and starred cinematographer Natty in the lead role. He made a big impression as an actor and appeared predominantly in comedy roles, especially in films, Sethu, Pithamagan, Chandramukhi, Polladhavan, Yaaradi Nee Mohini, Thamizh Padam, and the blockbuster Aranmanai franchise. In a career that has spanned more than 35 years, he has appeared in over 450 films. Manobala's passing is a huge loss to Tamil cinema and we here at Galatta extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
