Chennai: Veteran Tamil actor Delhi Ganesh, known for his impressive versatility in supporting roles, passed away on November 9, 2024, at the age of 80. The actor, who had been facing health issues, breathed his last in Chennai. His mortal remains have been kept at his residence in Ramapuram, where friends and fans have gathered to pay their respects. The last rites are scheduled for November 11.
Delhi Ganesh’s family confirmed the sad news, stating, “We deeply regret to inform that our father Mr Delhi Ganesh passed away on 9th November at 11:30 pm.”
With a career spanning over four decades and more than 400 films, Delhi Ganesh became a cherished figure in Tamil cinema, known for his remarkable ability to embody a wide range of characters. His performances as a comedian, villain, and sentimental supporting figure cemented his place in the hearts of audiences. Ganesh shared the screen with some of Tamil cinema’s greatest stars, including Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
Ganesh’s cinematic journey began in 1976 with Pattina Pravesam, under the direction of K Balachander, who gave him the stage name “Delhi Ganesh.” He played a leading role in the 1981 film Engamma Maharani but found lasting recognition in supporting roles. His acclaimed performances in Sindhu Bhairavi (1985), Nayakan (1987), Michael Madana Kama Rajan (1990), Aahaa..! (1997), and Thenali (2000) highlighted his talent for delivering both humour and heartfelt emotion.
Ganesh’s contribution to Tamil cinema earned him various accolades, including the Tamil Nadu State Film Award Special Prize for Pasi (1979) and the prestigious Kalaimamani Award in 1994, presented by then-Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. In later years, he explored television and short films, with roles that continued to entertain audiences. Notably, he played Alfred Pennyworth in What If Batman Was from Chennai, a short film, and appeared in the critically acclaimed Dhuruvangal Pathinaaru (2016), directed by Karthick Naren. He was also an active member of the Delhi-based theatre troupe Dakshina Bharata Nataka Sabha.
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