Veteran Malayalam actor Jagannatha Varma dies at 77

Celebrated Malayalam film and television actor KN Jagannatha Varma died at a private hospital in Thiruvanathapuram. He was 77.

Veteran Malayalam film and television actor KN Jagannatha Varma passed away at a private hospital in nearby Neyyantinkara, close to Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday. Varma was hospitalised two days ago following complaints of pneumonia.

Malayalam actor KN Jagannatha Varma is well-known for his role in films such as New Delhi, Lelam, Pathram, Nakshatrangale Sakshi and Sughamo Devi. (YouTube Grab)

He was 77 and is survived by his wife, Santha, son Manu Varma, a television actor and daughter Priya. His son-in-law is a noted director, Viji Thampy.

An accomplished Kathakali artist, Varma was in the Kerala Police force and had retired as Superintendent of Police. He made his debut in Malayalam films in 1978 with Mattoly and went on to do memorable roles in over 500 films.

Among his well known films are New Delhi, Lelam, Pathram, Nakshatrangale Sakshi, Sughamo Devi, Ee Thanuthe Veluppan Kalathu and No 20 Madras Mail.

At the age of 74, he made his ‘arangetram’ as Thayambaka artist and had said if age permits he would love to devote more time to the instrument.