The Tamil entertainment industry on Monday woke up to the sad news of veteran actor Joker Thulasi passing away in Chennai due to unknown reasons. Having made his debut in the lead role in the Tamil film Maruthu Pandi along with Ramki and Seetha under Manoj Kumar's direction, Thulasi passed away on May 9. A performance-oriented actor, Thulasi had acted in films like Thamizhachi, Ungalil Oruthi, Ilaignar Ani, Udan Pirappu, Avathara Purushan and Mannai Thottu Kumbidanum. He also went on to make an impact in television as well making appearances in TV soaps like Vani Rani, Kolangal, Azhagu and Keladi Kanmani. 

The news of Joker Thulasi’s death has left many in the Tamil industry in a state of shock, including actress Radikaa Sarathkumar, who took to Twitter to post a picture of the veteran actor and wrote, "Very saddened to hear of the passing of Joker Thulasi, a very wonderful person, has been in theatre & movies for many decades. Sends me messages everyday with positive thoughts. Share working memories of him in #vaanirani , will miss his childlike enthusiasm (sic)."

Similarly, actor Mohan Raman also tweeted his condolences to Joker Thulasi’s family saying, "RIP - " Joker " Thulasi. Has been acting since the mid 70s . A very affable person , deeply interested in Astrology etc . I pray for his Athma to attain Sadhgathi. Did many films and TV serials together. I pray his family finds the strength to bear this loss. Aum Shanthi (sic)."

Apart from leaving a lasting impression with his work in Tamil cinema, Joker Thulasi played supporting roles in several notable Kannada and Malayalam films and was also the  main actor of the Chennai-based Kanmani drama club.