Tamil actor Daniel Balaji passes away at 48 due to heart attack

Renowned Tamil and Malayalam actor Daniel Balaji, known for his impactful performances, passed away in Chennai. The actor, whose stage name was TC Balaji, reportedly succumbed to a heart attack at a private hospital in Kottivakam on Friday night. He was 48 years old.

According to reports by India Today, he was rushed to the hospital after complaining of chest pain on Friday. Following his death, his body was taken to his residence in Purasaiwalkam for the final rites.

The news of Balaji's sudden demise shocked his fans and the film industry. Director Mohan Raja paid tribute to Balaji, remembering him as an inspiration and a good friend. He expressed his sadness over the loss and recalled missing the opportunity to work with the talented actor.

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In an X post, he wrote, "Such a sad news. He was an inspiration for me to join film institute. A very good friend. Miss working with him. May his soul rest in peace. #RipDanielbalaji."

Fans also took to social media to express their grief, with many remembering Balaji for his iconic roles as a villain in Tamil cinema. A post on X (previously Twitter) read, "We Have Lost One of The Best Ever Villains In K_Town...!!!" Another person tweeted, "Life is unpredictable." A third comment read, "Rest in peace #DanielBalaji great actor and An iconic villain of Kollywood."

Daniel Balaji's career spanned across Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Kannada cinema. He started as a unit production manager in Kamal Haasan's Marudhunayagam and made his acting debut in the Tamil film April Madhathilin 2022. He gained recognition for his roles in Kaakha Kaakhaand Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadualongside Suriya and Kamal Haasan, respectively.

Balaji's versatility and talent were evident in his performances in films like Polladhavan, Chirutha, and Muthirai. He also made a mark in Malayalam cinema with films like Blackand Bhagavan. His last appearance was in Mithran R Jawahar's Ariyavanin 2023.