The entire world has been grappling with the coronavirus pandemic since early 2020 as it has led to the loss of life everywhere. The devastation caused by COVID-19 over the past one and a half years has been tantamount as families world over have lost their loved ones to the deadly disease, with many still undergoing treatment in hospitals, medical facilities, home quarantine and self-isolation. As governments continue to make use of every resource at their disposal to curb the spread of COVID-19, including providing vaccinations as a safeguard against the disease, there have been many in the Tamil film fraternity too who have lost their loved ones during this period. 

Now, in yet another tragedy, veteran Tamil film PRO Riaz K. Ahmed took to his Twitter page on Friday to share the sad news that his mother had passed away due to COVID-19 complications. She was 82. In a heartbreaking statement, Riaz said that his mother had requested him to be taken back home after she was admitted for COVID-19 treatment. She had told him that she would isolate herself in their home and take care, but had unfortunately succumbed to the disease. An emotional Riaz wrote that his mother was angry with him and had instead chosen to go be with God, while apologizing to her for not being able to look after her. Riaz's mother had been admitted to the St. Isabel's Hospital in Chennai for treatment earlier this week and asked fans and followers for her speedy recovery. 

A prolific name in Tamil cinema, Riaz is a notable figure and has served as a PRO for decades to many leading actors, actresses, directors, producers and other film personalities. The loss of his mother will come as a huge personal loss and we here at Galatta extend our heartfelt condolences to him and the bereaved family.