Tamil actor Abhinay, best known for his role in the 2002 coming-of-age drama Thulluvadho Ilamai, passed away on Monday, November 10, at the age of 44, following a prolonged battle with liver-related illness. The actor, who had been undergoing treatment for several years, breathed his last in Chennai.
Actor’s health struggles and final days
Abhinay had publicly shared details of his deteriorating health in recent years, appealing for financial help to manage his ongoing treatment. In a heartfelt video message that circulated widely online, the actor admitted, “I do not know if I will be around for longer,” revealing that doctors had warned him he might have only a year and a half left to live.
His condition worsened in recent months, and despite medical efforts, he succumbed to liver complications. His body is currently kept at his residence in Chennai, where colleagues and friends from the film industry have begun paying their respects.
Nadigar Sangam to perform final rites
According to reports, representatives from the Nadigar Sangam have stepped in to oversee Abhinay’s funeral arrangements, as the actor reportedly had no close family members to perform the last rites. The association is coordinating the proceedings to ensure a dignified farewell for the late actor.
Career and contributions to cinema
Abhinay made his acting debut with Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002), a film that also marked Dhanush’s debut and was directed by Kasthuri Raja. The movie went on to become a youth cult classic, and Abhinay’s performance earned him early recognition.
Over the next two decades, he appeared in over 15 films across Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada cinema, working in supporting roles and voice dubbing projects. Notably, he lent his voice for Vidyut Jammwal’s character in the 2012 blockbuster Thuppakki, directed by AR Murugadoss and starring Thalapathy Vijay.
His filmography includes appearances in movies, advertisements, and dubbing assignments that showcased his versatility and passion for the craft.
Support from the industry
As Abhinay’s medical expenses mounted, he sought financial support from the public and his colleagues in the film fraternity. His appeal drew responses from several prominent figures, including Dhanush, who reportedly donated ₹5 lakh, and comedian KPY Bala, who contributed ₹1 lakh.
Bala had also amplified Abhinay’s plea on social media, leading to more fans and well-wishers extending assistance. The actor’s last public appearance was at a film press conference in Chennai a few weeks before his death, where he appeared frail but optimistic.
Remembering Abhinay
Fans and peers have expressed grief over Abhinay’s demise, describing it as a loss to regional cinema. His portrayal in Thulluvadho Ilamai continues to be remembered by Tamil audiences as a defining performance of his career.
Tributes poured in from across the film industry, with many remembering him as a dedicated and humble artiste who faced adversity with courage.
The final rites are expected to take place in Chennai on Tuesday, under the supervision of Nadigar Sangam officials.