Veteran Telugu film director Sharath passed away in Hyderabad on Friday after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 74.

Sharath made his directorial debut in 1986 with Chadastapu Mogudu, which was based on a novel named Dear. The film featured Suman and Bhanupriya as the lead pair.

He proved his mettle as a director with the 1989 multi-starrer Agni Nakshatram starring Shobhan Babu, Kalyan Chakravarthy Nandamuri, and Mohan Babu. After two years, he revived his fortunes at the box office with Suman's Peddintalludu. The film was a commercial success and since then, there was no looking back for this director as he went on to helm over 20 films, including College Bullodu, Chinna Alludu, Bava Bavamaridi, Peddannayya, and Sultan. His films were replete with wholesome entertainment and family emotions. His last release was the critically acclaimed family entertainer Vamsodharakudu (2000) featuring Nandamuri Balakrishna in the lead.

Recalling his association with Sharath, Balakrishna said, "He was a dear friend and a versatile filmmaker. I am shocked at the news of his sudden death, and I extend my heartfelt sympathies to family members."

The director’s last rites will be performed on Saturday morning at Maha Prasthanam, Hyderabad.