Veteran Kannada actor Kashinath breathed his last on Thursday morning in Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital in Bengaluru. The 67- year- old actor was suffering from Hodgkin's lymphoma since 8 months and was undergoing treatment for past 2 days. After his condition deteriorated, he passed away at 7.45 am. The Aparoopada Athithigalu director is survived by daughter Amruthavarshini and son Abhimanyu. The versatile artist was known for his films on the subjects that were considered as taboo in the society and even by some of the film critics then. The friends and closed ones of the filmmaker expressed grief on the social media.

Regional portal The News Minute quoted actor Abinaya saying, “I still can't believe he is dead. He introduced me to films. He is my godfather. He taught me acting. He is like a father to me. I was still very young that time. He was very patient and taught me extremely well. Is so heartbreaking.” Other celebs tweeted to express their condolences for the iconic performer.

1980s was almost like a tribute to the master of acting as it was named as ‘Kashinath Yuga’ after the constant super- hits given by him. He acted in over 40 movies, his last one being Chowka (2017). Interestingly, his 1991 flick Ajagajaanthara was remade in Bollywood as Judaai starring Anil Kapoor- Urmila Matondkar and Sridevi. Also, another popular movie Avale Nanna Hendthi was later remade in Hindi which was Aamir Khan starrer Jawani Zindabad. His fans are grieving over the lost gem of the Sandalwood industry. Post your thoughts in the comments section below.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 18, 2018 12:02 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).