Noted director Balu Mahendra passes away

Legendary director Balu Mahendra passed away today (13th February 2014) at around 11 in the morning. He was 74. Balu Mahendra will always be remembered as an ace cinematograher / director and he has given Tamil cinema many gems such as Moodu Pani, Moondram Pirai, Veedu, Marupadiyum, Sathi Leelavathi and the recent Thalaimuraigal. 

He was the recipient of many National Awards, Filmfare Awards and State awards and has inpsired a whole generation of film makers, cinematographers and other industry personnel. His contribution to the industry cannot be captured in mere words. 

He was admitted to the Vijaya Hospitals in Chennai in a critical state in the morning following a heart attack and stroke. Some of his well-known students such as directors Bala, Ameer and Ram also reportedly visited him at the hospital.

His body will be kept for public homage at his 'Cinema Pattarai' film school in Saligramam, Chennai. The cremation will happen tomorrow.