Noted film director J Mahendran known for some of the finest Tamil films breathed his last at his Chennai residence early Tuesday morning. He was 79.
Chennai: John Mahendran who is not only known for his spectacular direction in the Tamil film industry but also for his stellar acting abilities, passed away in Chennai on April 2 at the age of 79.
The veteran director had been admitted to a Chennai hospital and was in critical condition on March 27. He breathed his last, early Tuesday morning.
His son, John Roshan took to Twitter to inform fans of the director of his passing. His tweet read, ‘Director John Mahendran passed away this morning.”
His mortal remains will be brought to his residence, where it will be kept for the public to pay their respects. The funeral will be held at 5pm.
John Mahendran is well-known for his films like ‘Uthiri Pookal’ and ‘Mullum Malarum’ and ‘Nenjathai Killathey’.
The legendary director's sojourn as an actor in films like Theri, Nimir and Petta was received warmly. He was also recently seen in the Atharvaa-starrer Boomerang.
J Mahendran is credited for mentoring superstar Rajinikanth during his initial days in the film industry.
Rajinikanth starred in J Mahendran’s directorial debut with Mullum Malarum alongside Sarath Babu, Fatafat Jayalaxmi and Shoba in the year 1978. The film had shaped Rajini’s career and during several occasions. Rajini has gone on to credit the legendary director for his success.
Rajini and Mahendran also shared the screen space in Petta where Mahendran brought to life a complex character who was an influential man willing to let go off his ego for his daughter’s happiness.
Mahendran also starred in other films like Kamaraj, Nimir and Mr Chandramouli.
Several people have tweeted about the void that J Mahendran has left behind in Kollywood.
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