Actor Raghuvaran passes away

Raghuvaran, a distinguished character artiste, passed away in Chennai this morning (March 19). He was admitted to Mehtha Hospital for treatment a few days ago. The reason for the death has been disclosed as weakness caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It is learnt that he had been under intensive medical care for the past few weeks.

Raghuvaran, born in December 11,1948, has acted in several Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Hindi films. Most of his roles were of a villain or a supporting actor. He has also acted as a hero in a few movies.

Though he has acted in several films, he shot to fame with his role as the protagonist of a Tamil soap opera, 'Oru Manidhanin Kadhai' (One Man's Story), about the agony of a well-to-do man who becomes an alcoholic.

Unfortunately, the drug addiction cast its shade in his real life too. His wife Rohini too divorced him due to his addiction. They have a son Rishi.

Though Raghuvaran tried to rid his habit and tried to lead life on normal terms, the addiction did not leave him alone.

'Anjali', 'Batsha', Puriyatha Puthir, and 'Mudhalvan' are some of the films in which he had rendered outstanding performances. He has acted in many of Rajini’s films including his latest film 'Sivaji - The Boss'. Though he had gradually reduced the number of films in recent years, he had three releases lined up in 2008, 'Bheemaa', 'Ashoka', and 'Silanerangalil'. He had also acted as Dhanush's father in ‘Yaradi Nee Mohini’, which is yet to be released.

Bollywood Buzz expresses its deepest condolences on the death of this versatile actor.