CHENNAI – Indian actor and comedian Robo Shankar passed away in Chennai on September 18 at the age of 46, following a critical hospitalisation due to liver and kidney ailments as well as jaundice.
Shankar, famed for his energetic “robot” dance moves that earned him his stage name, starred in popular Tamil films like Maari (2015) and was a staple on television, including the hit comedy show Athu Ithu Ethu’s first season in 2009.
His final days saw him collapsing on set while filming GodsJilla, after which he was admitted to GEM Hospital with gastrointestinal bleeding and multi-organ dysfunction, where he succumbed despite intensive medical care, as reported by hospital authorities.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment and political spectrum. Actor Kamal Haasan called Shankar his “younger brother” on social media, while actress Radikaa Sarathkumar highlighted his hard work and ability to keep others happy with humour. Tamil Nadu chief minister M.K. Stalin lauded him as a “talented artiste who entertained the people of Tamil Nadu through his performances on stage, television and film”.
Shankar, remembered for his clever comedic timing and unique stage presence, is survived by his wife Priyanka Shankar and daughter Indraj, both active in the acting industry.