Popular Tamil director SP Jhananathan is no more. According to reports, Jhananathan suffered a cardiac arrest this morning (March 14) after which, the doctors declared him dead. The news was officially confirmed by Jhananathan's team through a statement that read, "Our director #SPJananathan, sir , who was in a critical condition and was undergoing treatment at the Apollo hospitals, passed away at 10.07 am today morning after suffering a cardiac arrest. May his soul rest in peace". The critically acclaimed filmmaker was admitted to Apollo Hospitals, Greams Road, on March 11 after he fell unconscious at his office in Chennai.

As per the reports, Jhananathan was at an editing studio where the editing works of his next film, Laabam was happening. He took a break for lunch and had gone to his office. However, he did not return back for longer hours and as a result, his assistants went to his office to check on him. They were shocked to see him lying on the floor, unconscious and he was immediately rushed to the hospital. The news came as a big shocker for everyone. However, he was under observation and senior neuro surgeons examined if any surgery can be performed. Unfortunately, he died this morning. He was 61 years old when he breathed his last.

SP Jhananathan's demise is indeed a big loss to the Tamil film industry and the incident has shocked everyone. SP Jananathan is known for directing quality films like Iyarkai, E, Peranmai, Purampokku Engira Podhuvudamai. His next film, Laabam is yet to release and it is currently in the post-production stages. It is unfortunate that he will not be alive to see the audience's reception towards Laabam. The film stars Makkal Selvan Vijay Sethupathi and Shruti Haasan in the lead roles, while Jagapathi Babu, Ramesh Thilak, Kalaiyarasan, Sai Dhansika, Daniel Annie Pope, and others play supporting roles. Produced by Vijay Sethupathi Productions in association with P Arumugakumar's 7Cs Entertainment Pvt Ltd, the film has music scored by D Imman and cinematography by Ramji.

Jhananathan's debut directorial, Iyarkai had won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil. Jhananathan is also known for his political ideologies and strong communist thoughts. At this juncture, Galatta Media expresses its heartfelt condolences to Jhananathan's family and friends and prays for the departed soul to rest in peace. Details regarding the cremation and final rites are awaited.