Veteran Malayalam film and television actor KN Jagannatha Varma passed away at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday. Reportedly, he was hospitalised two days ago. He was diagnosed to be suffering from pneumonia, and was being treated for the same.
Varma was 77. He is survived by his wife, Santha, son Manu Varma, a television actor, and daughter Priya. His son-in-law is noted director, Viji Thampy.
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Jagannatha Varma started off his artistic career as a Kathakali artist. He was a student of ace artiste Kalamandalam Raman Namboothiri. At the age of 74, he debuted as a Thayambaka (percussion instrument) artist.
Varma made his film debut in 1978 with Mattoly. He went on to do memorable roles in over 500 films. His notable performances are in New Delhi, Lelam and Pathram.
Varma was in the Kerala Police force, and had retired as Superintendent of Police.