'Antha', 'Sangliyana' & 'Ravi Bopanna' actor Lakshman dies at 74

Veteran actor Lakshman, known for his roles in films like Antha, Sangliyana, Suryavamsha, and many others, passed away in the early hours of Monday, 23rd January. According to reports, he complained of chest pain and was rushed to a hospital in Nagarabhavi for immediate medical intervention. Lakshman would be later sent home but only to succumb to a heart attack around 3:30 a.m. - he was 74 years old at the time.

Reports also reveal that his mortal remains will be kept at his residence for public viewing and his last rites are expected to be performed today.

In a career that spanned close to four decades, Lakshman shared the screen space with several big stars such as Ambareesh, Vishnuvardhan, Dwarakish, Arjun Sarja, Shankar Nag and several others. His role in the 1981 film Antha as Inspector Kulwant, which is regarded as Rebel Star Ambareesh's breakthrough outing, will go down as his most memorable performance. Lakshman is said to have acted in more than 300 films and garnered recognition mainly for his many roles as an antagonist.

Sumalatha Ambareesh took to social media to mourn the loss and remember Lakshman for his performance in Antha.

"The news of renowned senior actor Lakshmana's death is shocking. He has acted in several films including Dr. Ambareesh's Antha. He was active in film, theatre and television - I pray that the departed soul rests in peace. I pray that God gives his family the strength to bear the grief," wrote Sumalatha Ambareesh in her post.

Reportedly, Lakshman had to strive hard to make a career in the film industry. Despite his passion for acting, he was forced to quit education at a very young age so as to financially support his family.