Kollywood's Hindi pundit dead

Even some of the ardent movie buffs may not know his name. But his very screen presence evokes laughter for the famous role, as a Hindi Pundit, he donned in the film Indru Poi Nalai Vaa. Though the film, which is directed by K. Bhagyaraj, is more that a decade old, his famed dialogue "Ek Gowme Ek Kissan Rahathatha (Raghu Thatha?!) stands out even

today. Well, he is John Amirtaraj.In his long-term career, this actor has starred in various roles, as a father, villain, teacher etc. Amirtaraj has also penned story and dialogues for many films. He has also tried his hands on direction, and wielded the megaphone for the Karthik-starrer Game. This noted artiste suffered a massive heart stroke on 28th May 2008 and succumbed to it. His last rites were performed at the Mandaiveli Crematorium the next day.

Yet another yesteryear comedy actress, T.P. Muthulakshmi also passed away last evening (29th May, 2008). After having debuted in the film Ponmudi, Muthulakshmi shot to fame with many films coming her way. Some of her notable films were Navarathiri, Veerapandia Kattabomman, Anbe Vaa, etc. Her foster son, director T.P. Gajendran was the first to pay his last respects. The Nadigar Sangam also condoled her death.