Hyderabad, Dec 19 (NationPress) Renowned folk artiste Pastham Mogilaiah passed away on Thursday morning after a prolonged struggle with kidney and heart-related issues in Telangana.

The 67-year-old Kinnera artiste gained prominence through the Telugu blockbuster 'Balagam'.

Mogilaiah took his last breath while his family was attempting to transfer him to a private hospital in Warangal.

He leaves behind his wife Komuramma, who is also a folk artiste, along with a son and a daughter.

Originating from Duggondi village in Warangal district, Mogilaiah rose to fame by performing an elegy alongside his wife Komuramma in the 2023 film 'Balagam'.

The couple hailed from a traditional community of folk performers known as 'Sharadakandru' within the 'Beda Budaga Jangala' community. They learned their craft from their parents and had been actively performing since childhood, gaining popularity in Warangal and nearby areas.

Mogilaiah captured the hearts of many with his poignant elegy in the climax of 'Balagam'. However, he faced significant financial difficulties due to severe kidney damage.

The producer of 'Balagam', Dil Raju, and director Yeldandi Venu provided financial support to him. Additionally, Megastar K. Chiranjeevi and other actors extended their assistance.

The state government has taken measures to ensure that the folk artiste receives the best medical care available.

Assembly Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar allocated Rs 1 lakh for Mogilaiah's treatment, while Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar promised the couple a house site.

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao expressed his condolences following Mogilaiah's passing, reflecting on how Mogilaiah's songs embodied the spirit of Telangana.

Rama Rao remarked that although Mogilaiah has departed for the heavenly realm, his legacy will live on through his songs.

The producer, director, and cast of Balagam have also expressed their sorrow over Mogilaiah's demise.

The final rites for the folk artiste will be conducted in his hometown Duggondi.