Kamal Haasan pays tribute as Tamil actor Robo Shankar passes away at 46

Kamal Haasan pays tribute to Robo Shankar after his demise

Beloved Tamil actor and comedian Robo Shankar has passed away at the age of 46, leaving fans, colleagues, and the film industry heartbroken. Known for his infectious energy, humour, and warm personality, Shankar collapsed suddenly while shooting for a film and was rushed to a private hospital in Chennai.

As per India Today, he was moved to the ICU after doctors noticed severe fluctuations in his blood pressure. Despite being closely monitored, his condition took a turn for the worse earlier today, and he passed away a few hours later.

His sudden passing has shocked the Tamil film industry. Shankar was more than just a performer; he was a man who made people laugh and brightened every stage he entered.

Shankar loved and looked up to veteran actor Kamal Haasan, who posted a heartfelt ode that perfectly encapsulated the sorrow of losing a loved one. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter) in Tamil:

"Robo Shankar. Robo is just a pseudonym. In my dictionary, you are a human. You're my younger brother. Will you just leave me and go? Your job is done, you left. My job remains unfinished. You left tomorrow for us. Therefore, tomorrow is ours."

Shankar often spoke about his admiration for Kamal Haasan, calling himself a devoted fan. He would regularly visit the veteran actor to seek his blessings before beginning new projects and proudly celebrated Kamal's achievements as if they were his own.

As per India Today, the late actor’s body will be taken to his home in Valasaravakkam, Chennai, tonight, where family, friends, and fans will gather to pay their respects. His last rites will be performed in the city on Friday. Shankar is survived by his wife, actress Priyanka Robo Shankar, his daughter Indraja Shankar—also an actor—and other loved ones.

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He had recently been battling jaundice and had visibly lost weight, sparking concern among fans. Despite this, he made a comeback and was last seen on Sun TV’s Top Cooku Dupe Cooku, a cooking-based reality show from which he was recently eliminated.

Robo Shankar’s journey began in 1997, performing robot dance acts in village shows, which earned him his nickname. From small roles in films like Padayappa to breakout performances in Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara and Maari, he carved a niche as one of Tamil cinema’s most loved comedic talents.