Sarath Babu passes away: Jr NTR, superstar Rajinikanth, Nani & others express grief

Veteran actor Sarath Babu, known for his varied roles in multiple languages, breathed his last on Monday, May 22, following a continued battle with ill health. Not very long ago, 71-year-old Sarath Babu fell prey to a social media hoax and reports of his demise began to soon get circulated all over until his family and friends cleared the air. Having been admitted to a hospital at the time, he would finally succumb to prevailing health issues and pass away on Monday.

His death has cast a huge shadow of grief on the Telugu and Tamil film industries and many of his colleagues have come forward to mourn the loss. The fact that Sarath Babu had made a huge impact across regions is being enunciated with the outpour of love and respect for legacy - superstars Rajinikanth, Jr NTR and several others have taken to social media to express their grief.

"Today I lost my close friend and wonderful man Sarath Babu. It is an irreparable loss. May his soul rest in peace," wrote Rajinikanth in his tweet. The Jailer actor has worked with Sarath Babu on multiple memorable films, including Mullum Malarum, Annaamalai and Muthu.

Devara actor Jr NTR condoled with Sarath Babu's family in his tweet and said, "Sad to hear about the passing of veteran actor Sarath Babu garu. His contributions to Indian cinema will be remembered forever. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends. Om Shanti."

Dasara star Nani fondly remembered Sarath Babu for his booming voice and the affable presence he had on the screen. Quite indeed, Sarath Babu towering physical personality and his baritone were the highlights of his image as an actor - in fact, it was these facets that set him apart from his peers.

Tiger Nageswara Rao star Ravi Teja, too, poured his emotions into his social media post and wrote, "Gentle Heart, Smiling soul & a Great Human Being. You will be missed & remembered forever #SarathBabu garu. My deepest condolences to his family! Om Shanti!"

In the same vein, many noted actors, filmmakers and industry insiders mourned the passing of the legendary actor and wished for strength and courage to his family in these tough times.