Main image via Behindwoods

Legendary comedian Vivekanandan, popularly known as Vivek, who won millions of hearts with his social message incorporated comedies, passed away this morning (April 17th) while undergoing treatment for cardiac arrest in a hospital at Chennai, India. He was 59 at the time of his passing.

The actor, who has appeared in more than 220 films, died following a cardiac arrest at 7:05am (MYT). According to doctors, the actor had a 100% blockage in the LAD (left anterior descending artery) vessel which led to a massive cardiac arrest. 

Vivek was introduced to cinema by none other than veteran director K Balachander who also introduced many other legends like Rajinikanth & AR Rahman. While Vivek played small roles in several Tamil films, beginning in the ‘80s, he went on to become a major comedian in the late ‘90s and the first decade of the new millennium. Between 2000 and 2010, Vivek did over 220 films. 

 

Vivek’s one-liners acquired the fame of punch lines uttered by major heroes. His comedy in films like Kushi, Minnale, Alaipayuthey, Dum Dum Dum, Sivaji and many other films, have extremely high recall value even now. He has worked with many big actors across generations. 

 

Vivek was popularly called “Chinna Kalaivanar'” for his ideologies on social reforms in his dialogues and jokes. Born as ‘Vivekanandan’ in Kovilpatti, Vivek’s tryst with acting started early in his life. He used to perform standup comedy during his college and early professional life, when he was employed with the state government. He was introduced in movies in 1987 by veteran director K Balachander who offered a supporting character role to Vivek in the film Manathil Urudhi Vendum. 

The actor won countless numbers of awards including the Filmfare and the Tamil Nadu State Awards. In 2009, the actor was conferred with Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honour in India, for his contribution to Indian cinema

Vivek also launched the ‘Green Kalam’ initiative to promote awareness and action against Global Warming. The initiative has planted one billion saplings across Tamil Nadu,  India.

 

Vivek leaves behind his wife and two daughters.

His memories live on in the hearts of his fans and their laughter. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, sir.
 

^{Info via Behindwoods}

^{By Thineshkan}