Popular writer, producer dead

Well known Tamil writer and producer Panchu Arunachalam, who has been credited for taking megastar Rajinikanth to the masses, breathed his last here on Tuesday, his publicist said. He was 75.

"He passed away at his residence due to age-related ailments," Arunachalam's publicist told IANS.

He is popular for writing over 100 Tamil films, including hits like "Murattu Kaalai", "Sakalakala Vallavan" and "Apoorva Sagodhargal".

While late filmmaker K. Balachander might have launched superstar Rajinikanth, Panchu was responsible for taking the 65-year-old star to the masses. They worked together in 23 films, including "Kazhugu", "Pokkiri Raja" and "Paayum Puli" among others.

Arunachalam also came to be known for his association with Kamal Hassan, and they worked together in 13 films. Some of these were titles like "Thoongadhey Thambi Thoongadhey" and "Uyarndha Ullam".

That apart, the writer-producer was also responsible for launching the career of music maestro Illayaraja. He introduced the latter in 1976 Tamil film "Annakilli".

Earlier this year, a critically-acclaimed documentary on Panchu called "A Creator With Midas Touch" was released.

Panchu is survived by son Subbu Panchu Arunachalam, a popular Tamil actor.

(Source: IANS)