Multi-lingual actor Pratap Pothen died in Chennai on Friday following a cardiac arrest. His sudden demise drew tributes and expressions of grief from his industry colleagues.

“Beloved Pratap Pothan, who was a blessed artist and proven his talent in all fields related to cinema including acting, screenplay, directing, production, has left us. We shared years of friendship. Tributes,” actor Mohanlal wrote on Facebook. 

Prithviraj Sukumaran tweeted: “Rest in peace uncle! I will miss you,” and added a heartbreak emoji.

“So disheartened. Heartbreaking. Lost a very good friend, a wonderful human being, a great technician n actor n funniest guy ever, Pratap Pothen this morning. Had the privilege to work with him in few films. Hope you are finally in peace PP. You will be missed terribly,” Khushbu Sundar tweeted.

Actor Nivin Pauly wrote, “When we said good bye last week, never thought that it would be the last. It was a great experience and honour working with you, Pratap sir in Rosshan chettan’s movie as your son. I will always remember you for your innocent smile, twinkling eyes, and kind words.”

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Pothen was known for his unique dialogue delivery and has acted in a number of Tamil and Malayalam movies with top-ranked stars.

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Pothen’s first movie, ‘Aaravam’, in 1978 was directed by Bharathan. Pothen later acted in ‘Thakara’ in 1979, ‘Lorry’ and ‘Chamaram’ in 1980. These movies are considered milestones in the Malayalam industry.

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Pothen directed a total of 12 movies, including three films in Malayalam — ‘Rithubhedam’ (1987), ‘Daisy’ (1988), and ‘Oru Yathramozhi’ (1997).

The actor-director is survived by his wife and daughter.