Veteran writer and filmmaker Panchu Arunachalam passed away on Monday, Aug. 9. He was 75 and survived by his wife, two daughters and two sons.
During his career spanning several decades, Arunachalam wrote over 100 movies. Some of his memorable films are "Murattu Kaalai," "Sakalakala Vallavan" and "Apoorva Sagodhararga." He also penned over 200 songs.
Panchu Arunachalam also directed movies like "Enna Thavam Seithen" and "Nadagame Ulagam." He also produced films under his home banner of PA Arts. "Priya," "Guru Sishyan" and "Michael Madhana Kamarajan" are some of the successful films bankrolled by him.
He is credited for introducing Ilayaraaja to films and shaping the careers of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. In fact, Rajini had screened his recent movie, "Kabali," for him in Chennai. Despite his poor health, Panchu Arunachalam watched the Tamil film, which was released on July 22.
Panchu Arunachalam's son Subbu Panchu is an actor and dubbing artiste.
Many celebrities have expressed their condolence on Twitter. Read their comments and see the photos of celebs paying homage to the actor below:
Rajinikanth: Panju sir ... I will really really miss you. May your soul rest in peace
Aishwaryaa.R.Dhanush: Rest in peace #PanchuArunachalam uncle ...you will always be loved and remembered as fondly as ever.
Pcsreeram: #PanchuArunachalam Tamil film industry has lost one of its greatest mentor. .His life and his work are place in history. RIP
R Sarath Kumar: Shocked to hear the demise of #PanchuArunachalam . he will be missed and remembered by all always.
AR Murugadoss: # RIP PANCHU sir, The Master story teller best in dual action subject, always wanted to work with him bt, lots of respect for ur work sir
Siddharth: Panchu Arunachalam sir was a passionate creator. His contribution to Tamil cinema will live on forever. RIP sir. Strength to the family.
Nk Pallavi: Veteran Tamil producer Panchu Arunachalam, Is no more. RIP."
Dhananjayan Govind: Panchu Arunachalam sir was born on 22nd March 1941, 75 years old now. Big loss to everyone &I am still unable to believe as I spoke recently.
Radikaa Sarathkumar: So shocked to hear of the sudden demise of veteran Panchu Arunachalam, spent a lot of time with him in recent times. I am shocked. RIP
Shanthnu Buddy: Panchu Arunachalam appa !Ur contribution to Cinema can never b matchedcondolences&strength to @subbu6panchu family
Gautami: My heartfelt condolences on Panchu sir's passing. An amazing life with wonderful milestones! An inspiration to many!
Karunakaran: RIP Panchu Arunachalam Sir one of the greatest contributor to the Film Industry
