Tamil comedy actor Vadivel Balaji, who rose to fame after featuring in Vijay TV's comedy show Kalakka Povathu Yaaru passed away on September 10 at a government hospital in Chennai.

The comedian who was 42, known for mimicking popular actor Vadivelu, earned the prefix to his name, had suffered a heart attack about 15 days ago and was hospitalised since.

‘Vadivel' Balaji was transferred from a private hospital to a couple of other hospitals before he was taken to the government Omandurar hospital in Chennai on Thursday morning where efforts to save him failed.

‘Vadivel' Balaji is among the group of actors who got their breakthrough via Vijay TV’s reality comedy show Kalakkapovadhu Yaaru. The comedian is also known for his performances in 'Siricha Pochu' segment of TV show 'Adhu Idhu Yedhu'.

On the film front, he appeared in the Nayanthara-starrer Kolamaavu Kokila, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. He has since acted in films like Pandhayam, Sutta Pazham Sudatha Pazham, Kadhal Panchayathu, Karpanai, and Yaaruda Mahesh.

Vadivel Balaji, born in Madurai in 1975, made his film debut in the 1991 movie 'En Rasavin Manasile', starring Rajkiran and Meena in the lead roles. The cast also featured Vadivelu, after whom the late actor would later be named.

Vadivel Balaji's sudden demise has shocked his fans and condolences came pouring in for the comedian as soon as the news of his death spread. He is survived by his wife, son and daughter.

😢 #RIPVadivelBalaji pic.twitter.com/5D3hgsiimr

— Vijay Television (@vijaytelevision) September 10, 2020

Deeply saddened and disturbed by the sudden demise of a great talent, Vadivel Balaji. May his soul rest in peace. My condolences to his family.

— Dhanush (@dhanushkraja) September 10, 2020

Shocking!! So sad. RIP https://t.co/3HM0LkP45W

— Prasanna (@Prasanna_actor) September 10, 2020

RIP #Vadivelbalaji 💔💔 pic.twitter.com/7LYK3DHbFC

— aishwarya rajessh (@aishu_dil) September 10, 2020