Tamil Film Actor Robo Shankar Dies At 46, Kamal Haasan Pays Tribute

Tamil actor-comedian Robo Shankar passed away in Chennai on Thursday evening, sending shockwaves through the Tamil film industry.

Chennai:

Tragic news has engulfed the Tamil film industry as popular actor and comedian Robo Shankar died on Thursday while receiving treatment at a private hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

He was 46 years old.

Robo Shankar leaves behind his wife Priyanka and daughter Indraja, who previously appeared alongside actor Vijay in the blockbuster film Bigil.

The actor, renowned for his memorable performances in films such as Dhanush's Maari, Vishal's Irumbu Thirai, and Vishnu Vishal's Vellainu Vandhutta Vellaikaran, suddenly collapsed during a film shoot on Wednesday.

Crew members immediately rushed him to a private hospital where he received treatment in the Intensive Care Unit. Despite medical efforts, the actor could not be saved and reportedly passed away around 8:30 pm on Thursday.

According to sources, the actor's body will be transported from the hospital to his residence, where it will be placed for public homage on Friday, September 19.

Numerous actors and directors from the Tamil film industry have expressed their shock and sorrow upon learning of the comedian's untimely death.

Veteran actor Kamal Haasan, among the first to respond to the news, honored the late actor with a poignant Tamil poem. The poem, when translated, reveals a conversation that Kamal Haasan appears to be having with Robo Shankar.

Kamal Haasan noted that 'Robo' was merely a stage name, adding that in his personal dictionary, he considered Robo Shankar as his younger brother.

"Just because you have gone doesn't mean you have left me," Kamal Haasan expressed, adding that while Robo Shankar had departed because his work was complete, he himself remained as his own work was unfinished. He concluded the poem with the words, "As you have left tomorrow for me, tomorrow is ours."

Director Venkat Prabhu also shared his condolences, writing on his X timeline, "#RIProboshankar gone too soon my friend. Deepest condolences to family and friends."