‘Rocket’ Ramanathan, hailed as ‘Tamil Nadu’s first mimicry artiste,’ died earlier today at his Chennai residence following complications due to chronic diabetes and other age-related ailments. He was 74.
Ramanathan was introduced as a comedian in Tamil cinema through Sparisam (1982) directed by RC Sakthi starring S Ve Sekhar in the lead. He was also a part of Oru Pullanguzhal Aduppudhugiradhu (1983), Valartha Kada (1983), Mann Soru (1984), Kovil Yanai (1986) and many other films. He was conferred with the Kalaimamani Award and the Kalaiselvam Award by the Tamil Nadu Government and the Nadigar Sangam respectively. The comedian has also acted alongside Vijayakanth in Manakanakku.
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Ramanathan suffixed his name with ‘Rocket’ in the 1970s, and is said to have participated in the anti-Hindi agitations that happened in the State back then.
The actor was said to be receiving treatment for his illnesses when he suffered a fatal setback. He is survived by wife, a son and a daughter.
Ramanathan’s mortal remains will be laid to rest later this evening.
Earlier this afternoon, the South Indian Film Artistes Association released a statement condoling his death.
Pic: India Today