A profound loss to the Tamil film industry!
Veteran comedian Vivek who was hospitalised due to cardiac arrest, passed away early this morning at SIMS hospital. He was 59 years old.
According to Dr. Vijaykumar Chokkan, the SIMS Hospital head of Medical Services, and Health Secretary Dr. J Radhakrishnan, the veteran actor breathed his last at 4.45 am without responding to the treatment.
Vivek, who received the first injection of the COVID vaccine on Thursday, complained of chest pain and was rushed to the city’s SIMS hospital. He was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and then placed on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO).
Meanwhile, the hospital claims that the actor’s heart arrest has nothing to do with the vaccine. The medical officers have told reporters that the actor had a 100% blockage on the left artery, affecting blood flow to the brain.
Political leaders, celebrities, and fans wished to express condolence on the passing away of Vivek.
@Actor_Vivek can’t believe you’ve left us ..May you rest in peace ..you’ve entertained us for decades ..your legacy will stay with us🌹
— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) April 17, 2021
Not able to believe this… He made us laugh, he educated us through his performances, he cared for this world and helped teach us how to take care of it.
There will never be another like you sir.
We will miss you.
Rest in peace @Actor_Vivek sir#ripvivek pic.twitter.com/3JXfRkn3T2— Gautham Karthik (@Gautham_Karthik) April 17, 2021
Just can't accept @Actor_Vivek sir is no more. His work in cinema and social work will be remembered for long long time. He will live on in our hearts and in every tree that he planted. Go well dear sir. #RIP
— Prasanna (@Prasanna_actor) April 17, 2021
OMG..cant believe I woke up to this Shocking news abt Legendary @Actor_Vivek sir🙏🏻
Heartbreaking..
Greatest Comedian of our Times who always incorporated a Social Message into his COMEDY
I hav always been his diehard FAN
U wl live in our Hearts forever dear Sir🙏🏻💐#ripvivek pic.twitter.com/4ferfSsgDm
— DEVI SRI PRASAD (@ThisIsDSP) April 17, 2021
Vivek, who was born in Kovilpatti as ‘Vivekanandan,’ began acting at a young age. During his college years and early career years, he worked for the state government and used to do stand-up comedy.
Fondly known as “Chinna Kalaivaanar,” he has won several awards over the years, including the Filmfare and Tamil Nadu State Awards. For his contributions to the Indian cinema, he was also awarded the Padma Shri, which is the country’s fourth-highest civilian honour, in 2009.
The Varnam team extends our sincere condolences to Vivek sir’s family in this time of sorrow. Rest in Power sir!
