Tributes pour in for Junior Balaiah, Kamal Haasan fondly remembers his friend

The Tamil film industry is mourning the loss of seasoned actor Junior Balaiah, who passed away at the age of 70 late last night at his residence in Valasaravakkam, Chennai. The cause of his death is believed to be asphyxiation, which occurred around 1:30 AM. 

Junior Balaiah was a key member of the Nadigar Sangam, the apex organisation representing the Tamil film industry. Funeral arrangements are scheduled for Friday.

In the wake of Junior Balaiah's passing, social media flooded with messages of condolence. Many leading stars of Tamil cinema, including superstar Kamal Haasan, fondly remembered Balaiah with heartfelt words.

"Junior Balaiah Raghu, son of legendary actor DS Balayya, became my friend in my teen years. Like his father, he also started his career in theatre before achieving success in cinema. He has passed away today. My tribute to him. My condolences to his family," Kamal wrote on X, formerly Twitter. 

Comedic icon Kovai Sarala also expressed her condolences, visiting Junior Balaiah's residence to pay her respects. "I don't know what to say in these times. He was a very patient man. He never got upset with anyone. He was not well the last few days. He has now gone to rest. Let his soul find peace," Kovai Sarala told the media. 

Not just celebrities, but fans of Junior Balaiah have also paid a rich tribute to him on social media.  

Junior Balaiah is the son of late movie icon T. S. Balaiah. Following in his father's footsteps, Junior Balaiah pursuing a career in theatre before making a successful transition to cinema. He made a name for himself as a supporting artist. He was as versatile as his father in playing various kinds of roles ranging from comedy roles to more serious performances.

Junior Balaiah is survived by his son and daughter.