Thiruvananthapuram: Veteran film producer and director M Mani, known as Aroma Mani, passed away at his residence in Kunnukuzhy on Sunday. He was 77 years old.

Mani produced over 60 films and directed more than 10 movies under his banners Sunitha Productions and Aroma Movie International.

He received the National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues for 'Doore Doore Oru Koodu Koottam' in 1986.

A few notable films produced by Aroma Mani are 'Oru CBI Diary Kurippu', 'Commissioner', 'Colours', 'Kanaka Simhasanam' etc. 

‘Dheera Sameere Yamuna Theere,’ released in 1977 and starring Madhu, marked Mani's debut production venture. His final production venture was the 2013 film ‘Artist,’ directed by Shyamaprasad and starring Fahadh Faasil.