Tamil actor Daniel Balaji passed away on Friday night, March 29, due to a heart attack at a private hospital in Chennai. He had complained of chest pain earlier that day and was rushed to a hospital in Kottivakam, Chennai, where he received treatment but unfortunately succumbed to his condition. He was 48 years old. His sudden demise has shocked his fans and the Tamil film industry.

Daniel Balaji was known for his impactful villain roles in films. His portrayal of Amudhan in Gautham Menon and Kamal Haasan's 'Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu' is remembered as one of the iconic antagonist roles in Tamil cinema. His body has been taken to his residence in Purasaiwalkam for the final rites, and many actors, directors, and producers from the Tamil film industry are expected to pay their respects to him.

Starting his career as a unit production manager in Kamal Haasan's project 'Marudhunayagam', Balaji later ventured into television with a memorable role in Radikaa Sarathkumar's 'Chithhi', where he earned the screen name, Daniel Balaji. In 2002, he made his acting debut in the Tamil film 'April Madhathil', but it was his role in 'Kaakha Kaakha' alongside Gautham Menon and Suriya-Jyotika that brought him fame. He also appeared as the antagonist in Vetri Maaran's 'Polladhavan'. His collaboration with Gautham Menon continued with 'Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu', where his portrayal of Amudhan was widely appreciated.

Balaji's notable films include Ajith's 'Yennai Arindhaal', Simbu's 'Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada', Thalapathy Vijay's 'Bairavaa', Dhanush's 'Vada Chennai', and Vijay's 'Bigil'. He was last seen in 'Ariyavan'. Apart from Tamil films, Daniel Balaji also appeared in a few Malayalam, Telugu, and Kannada movies. His roles in Telugu films like 'Chirutha' and 'Sahasam Swasaga Sagipo', as well as his recent appearance in 'Tuck Jagadish', showcased his versatility and ability to connect with audiences across different languages.