Actor, director, producer and musician Thakkali Srinivasan died on Tuesday, March 10, at the age of 56, following a prolonged illness. His family confirmed he had been battling health complications for some time. His cousin Venkat Hari posted the sad news on Facebook.

"Sad to report that my maternal first cousin, popularly known as Thakkali Srinivasan, attained shivaloka prapthi two days ago. He was a chemical engineer who turned to producing and directing several movies like: Ivargal Varungala Thoongal, Manasukkul Mathappu, Soora Simharam, Nalaya Manithan, Adhisaya Manithan, Witness, Janma Nakshthiram, etc.
He was also a good music director. For the last 15 years, he has turned spiritual and run an Ashramam cum orphanage. Om Shanthi." The star's last rites will be held on Wednesday, March 11, and will be attended by his family members and close friends. He was best known for his pioneering cult thrillers, such as Nalaya Manithan and Jenma Natchathram.

As a producer, he was behind films such as Ivaras Varungalthoongal, Manasukkal Mathappu, Naalai Manithan, and Adhisaya Manithan. He turned his hand to directing movies like Witness, Ashokavanam, and Aduthuttu. As an actor, he featured in movies such as Soorasamharam, Sirayil Sila Raagangal, Jenma Natchathiram, and Naalai Manithan. The multi-talented Thakkali also composed music for films.

However, despite his glittering career, he had stepped away from the spotlight in recent years to dedicate himself to humanitarian work. His last production was Aduthathu in 2011, a thriller about reality show contestants on a desert island.

Tributes flooded in for the star as news of his death became public. Writing on Facebook, one person wrote: "Very Sad To hear this News. Mr. Thakkali Srinivasan was a good Friend from 1988, and we are good Friends....Really Sorry....We Miss You....RIP..."

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A second added: "It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of esteemed Producer, Director, and Composer Thakkali Srinivasan, who passed away due to health complications in Bengaluru. A highly successful filmmaker, he leaves behind a rich cinematic legacy..."

A third chimed in: "Omg... Very sorry to hear about his demise... He used to visit B & W to enjoy Tamil music.... may his soul rest in peace."

A fourth shared: "A creative mind who left a lasting mark on cinema and a compassionate soul who served others in his later years. May his legacy continue to inspire. Rest in peace. Om Shanti."

A fifth recalled: "I remember him as Kitty's son in Soora Samharam Kamal Starer...He has been ill for many years now. Om shanthi." Meanwhile, a sixth penned: "I remember him as one of the Doctors in Naalaiya Manidhan. Condolences to his family."