Legendary South Indian dance choreographer Sivashankar master passed away on Sunday in Hyderabad after losing the battle to COVID 19.  The film fraternity is yet to come to terms with this passing away and tributes are continuing to flow for him.

Director K.S. Ravikumar has shared that the iconic role of Sivashankar that Thala Ajith played in 'Varalaaru' was inspired by Sivashankar master and thats why the character was named after him.  He said that Ajith was hesitant to play the effiminate role but the director convinced him only after telling him about Sivashankar master.  The unique thing about the legend was that the way he chewed beetel leaves, the manner in which he greeted people or scolding his dancers if they make mistakes all were in a feminine style.  But no one showed any disrespect towards him and thats how choreographed for over 800 films.

Ravikumar said that the late master had a feminine touch because he embraced the dance art form completely into his system.  He also apparently pointed out to Ajith that Sivashankar had a happy married life and had two sons just like in 'Varalaaru'.  The dances in the film also choreographed by the man who inspired the character have stood the test of time.