Actor-director Kamal Haasan's older brother Chandra Haasan, one of the shareholders of Raaj Kamal Films Private International, died late last night in London. He was 82.
Chandra Haasan is survived by his daughter, actress Anu Haasan, and son Nirmal Haasan. Sources close to the family said Chandra Haasan died of a massive heart attack at Anu Haasan's home in London. His wife Geethamani had died only a few weeks ago.
Chandra Haasan, who has produced several hit films as a shareholder of Raaj Kamal Films, including Vikram (1986), Sathyaa (1988), Apoorva Sagodharargal (1989), Thevar Magan (1992), Kurudippunal (1995), Avvai Shanmughi (1996, Chachi 420 in Hindi), Hey Ram (2000), Unnaipol Oruvan (2009) and Vishwaroopam (2013), was a lawyer by profession.
Many in the industry considered him Kamal Haasan's guiding force. The actor himself is believed to have acknowledged that he would not have made so many good films without his brother's guidance.
The Nadigar Sangam, an association of Tamil film artistes, has condoled the death of Chandra Haasan. In a statement, the Sangam said, "We are overcome with grief on getting to know about the demise of the second brother of actor Kamal Haasan, Shri Chandra Haasan, at his daughter's residence in London. Right from childhood, Shri Chandra Haasan has been someone who has mentored and supported Kamal Haasan. He is one of the reasons for Kamal Haasan's growth. We pray that his soul rests in peace and offer our deepest condolences to all his family members."