Ashok Rao, famously known for his antagonist role in Dr Rajkumar's film, Parashuram, died of a heart attack in the early hours on Wednesday.

The 75-year-old actor was suffering from cancer for a long time and has passed away at his residence in Bengaluru.

Ashok Rao has worked in more than 250 films, mostly as a villain and in supporting characters.

The actor has shared screen space with legendary actors Dr Rajkumar and Vishnuvardhan among others. He is survived by a son and a daughter. Reports suggest that he will be laid to rest today itself.

Some of notable films include Shrungara Kavya, Ashwamedha, Auto Shankar, Operation Ankusha, Thavarina Siri, Suicide, Sirivantha, Jodi Hakki, Rishi, Inspector Jhansi, and Om Ganesh among others.

Kannada film fraternity mourns the passing away of Ashok Rao. Many have posted condolence messages on their social media handles.