Chennai, Sep 24 (NationPress) Renowned director R D Narayanamurthy, celebrated for his work on the Tamil romantic comedy 'Manathai Thirudi Vittai' starring Prabhu Deva, Vadivelu, and Gayatri Jayaraman, has sadly passed away at the Omandurar Government Hospital in Chennai.

The director was aged 59 and is survived by his wife Hamsaveni and son Lokeswaran.

According to close sources, Narayanamurthy had been undergoing treatment at the hospital for a week, but unfortunately, his condition deteriorated, and he passed away on Tuesday night.

The final rites are scheduled for Friday after the return of his son from London. His remains have been transferred to a private hospital in Chennai, from where they will be taken to his residence in Pammal, in the Kancheepuram district.

Director Narayanamurthy is best remembered for 'Manathai Thirudi Vittai', whose comedic moments and songs remain beloved today. The interactions between Vadivelu and Prabhu Deva, alongside the late Vivek, are iconic, inspiring countless memes over the years.

The news of Narayanamurthy's passing, who also directed films like 'Oru Ponnu Oru Paiyyan', has shocked the Tamil film community.

Actress Gayatri Jayaraman, who starred in 'Manathai Thirudi Vittai', expressed her grief on social media, stating, "If I am known as Manja Kaatu Maina today, it is because of Director Narayanamurthy Sir, the mind behind my first Tamil film. Years later, we collaborated again in the Nandini serial. A true craftsman."

"I am devastated by the news of his demise this morning. Even after 24 years since the film's release, its comedy, songs, and spirit are still cherished. He will forever be remembered. Om Shanti."