Late actor Robo Shankar, a devoted fan of actor-politician Kamal Haasan, will be remembered in a special tribute during the theatrical rerelease of the classic film Nayakan on November 6. Robo Shankar, who frequently celebrated the releases and re-releases of Kamal Haasan’s films, was known to attend the very first shows whenever possible.

Mani Ratnam’s Nayakan, featuring Kamal Haasan alongside Janagaraj, Delhi Ganesh and others, is set for a theatrical rerelease, and Kamala Theatres in Chennai has announced a touching gesture in memory of Robo Shankar. The theatre’s director took to X to share the tribute:

"Celebrations at Kamala Cinemas for Kamal Sir’s films will not be the same without Robo Shankar. Before public bookings open, the first ticket will be kept in memory of Robo Shankar and the next few for his family."

Robo Shankar passed away on September 18 at the age of 46, following a hospitalisation. He is survived by his wife Priyanka, their daughter Indraja, and a grandson. His unexpected death sent ripples across the Tamil film industry, with colleagues and fans expressing their grief.

Kamal Haasan himself paid a heartfelt tribute to his late admirer, writing, "Robo Shankar. Robo is your moniker, but in my dictionary you are a human. And because of that you are my younger brother. Will your passing ever separate us? It was your time, so you left. But it isn't my time, so I remain. Tomorrow is ours, because you left tomorrow for us."

The decision to dedicate the first ticket of the Nayakan rerelease to Robo Shankar highlights the actor’s enduring connection to Kamal Haasan’s work and his love for cinema. Fans attending the screenings on November 6 are expected to pay tribute to the late actor, ensuring his passion and memory continue to be celebrated.(With inputs from Agencies)