Actor Thavasi, who was undergoing treatment for oesophageal cancer, passed away on Monday evening at Madurai’s Saravana Multispeciality Hospital.

DMK MLA Saravanan, the Managing Director of the hospital, took to Twitter and said, “Character actor Thavasi was admitted in Saravana Hospital on November 11 for oesophageal cancer. He was fitted with oesophageal stent. While he was in the general ward, today (Nov 23) he got breathlessness and was shifted to emergency care. He died around 8 pm today. I express my deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans.”

Thavasi was best known for his supporting roles in films like Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam, Rajini Murugan, Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai, and Kizhakku Cheemayile. He was also a well-known face on television.

A video featuring the actor, which was shot after he was admitted to a private hospital in Madurai, went viral recently. In the video, Thavasi is seen explaining his health condition and financial need. This was circulated across the net and many people volunteered to come to his aid.

MLA Saravanan offered to give him treatment free of cost at his hospital. The actor was also financially aided by Vijay Sethupathi, Sivakarthikeyan, Rajinikanth, Soundarya Rajinikanth, and Simbu.