Tamil actor Karthik Sabesh, known for his supporting roles in films such as ‘Vallavan’, ‘Kaadhal Solla Vanthaen’ and ‘Pattathu Yaanai’, has died at the age of 37.
The actor passed away in Chennai on Monday night, October 19, after being unwell for some time, according to reports. He was the son of late music composer Sabesh and the nephew of veteran composer Deva, whose death on October 17 has left the family mourning two losses within days.

According to reports, Karthik died at a private hospital in Chennai at around 11:15 pm on Monday after undergoing treatment for health complications. He was 37. His last rites are scheduled to take place in Valasaravakkam, Chennai, on Tuesday afternoon.

Actors Ramesh Thilak and Jai visited Karthik’s residence to pay their last respects. Jai, who is also a member of the family, is among the actor’s cousins. 

A career in Tamil cinema

Karthik Sabesh grew up in a family closely connected to Tamil film music but chose acting as his profession. He made an early appearance in ‘Dreams (2004)’, which starred Dhanush, before appearing in Silambarasan’s ‘Vallavan’ (2006) as a classmate of the lead character.

He went on to feature in ‘Kulir 100°’ (2009), a coming-of-age drama directed by Anita Udeep, and the Telugu film ‘Thakita Thakita’ (2010). Karthik also appeared in ‘Kaadhal Solla Vanthaen’ (2010), where he played Petha Perumal.

Among his other credits are ‘Udhayam NH4’ and ‘Pattathu Yaanai ‘(both released in 2013), followed by ‘Oru Kanniyum Moonu Kalavaanikalum’ and ‘Burma’ in 2014. He was also part of ‘Mahabalipuram’ (2015). His filmography largely comprised supporting and comic roles, with ‘Pattathu Yaanai’ helping bring him wider recognition as a comic performer. 

Karthik was the son of music composer Sabesh. Karthik’s uncle Deva, widely known as Thenisai Thendral, was another prominent figure in the family. Deva died at 75 on October 17, following a cardiac arrest. He was admitted to a private hospital before his death. He was also known for the signature introductory music associated with Rajinikanth, which became closely linked with the superstar’s on-screen image