Malayalam film director P Balachandra Kumar, who made the Asif Ali-starrer Cowboy (2013), passed away due to kidney failure in a private hospital in Chengannur on Friday. He was 52.

Balachandra Kumar, a native of Manakkootam, Thirupuram, Thiruvananthapuram, had been undergoing treatment for kidney and heart ailments for several years. His mortal remains were shifted to Thiruvananthapuram for final rites.

Balachandra Kumar was in the news after his revelations against actor Dileep proved crucial in the 2017 Kerala actor abduction and assault case. His disclosure that Dileep had a role in the assault and had a copy of the visuals of the horrifying incident significantly impacted the case's investigation. His revelations strengthened the case, culminating in the arrest of the accused, including Dileep.