From Pattina Pravesam to Indian 2, Ganesh was authentic in every role

RENOWNED veteran actor Delhi Ganesh passed away at the age of 80, leaving Tamil cinema bereft of one of its most prolific supporting actors.

- NARAYANI M

On Saturday, the iconic character actor succumbed to age-related ailments, marking the end of an illustrious 48-year career. He brought life to diverse roles across genres in over 400 films, working with cinema's finest—from legends like Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Visu, and Sivakumar to newer icons like Vijay, Ajith, and Silambarasan, as well as budding directors and actors who were drawn to his dedication and craft.

Born Ganesan on August 1, 1944, Delhi Ganesh served in the Indian Air Force for a decade (1964-1974) before turning his passion for acting into a career. The 'Delhi' in his name became part of his identity after he joined the Delhi-based theatre group Dakshina Bharata Nataka Sabha. His portrayal of Kuselar in Kathadi Ramamurthi's play Dowry Kalyana Vaibhogame caught the eye of acclaimed director K Balachander, who cast him in his debut film Pattina Pravesam (1976). From that point on, there was no looking back. Delhi Ganesh embraced every role—comic, villainous, or emotional—bringing an authenticity that few could match. His sinister portrayal as Francis Anbarasu in Aboorva Sagodharargal particularly stands out as a testament to his nuanced talent.