Veteran actor Sathyaraj has regretted the demise of his friend and film-maker Manivannan who passed away in June this year.

A veteran who had served the industry in various capacities as an actor, script-writer, director and producer, the multi-faceted Manivannan was known for his thought-provoking movies and his unique dialogue-delivery even as he excelled in all kinds of roles: be it a villain or a comedian or a character-artiste.

Sathyaraj said “Without doubt, my role as Periyar in the film Periyar is very close to my heart among all the roles I have essayed. It was praised by the critics; I can’t find any other role which gave me such a joy while I was playing it. I love the philosophies of Periyar and the late V. Prabhakaran of LTTE,” he said.

“My films at present include Sigaram Thodu and Isai; I’m also essaying a good role in the Telugu film Baahubali. Goundamani was hugely responsible in many o my films doing well early in my career. We shared a great ‘on-screen chemistry’. Likewise, I can’t forget Manivannan whose films had guided me to a great extent. I can no more realize my dream of starring in his films which is a very sad feeling,” concluded Sathyaraj.