Actor Augustine passes away

KOZHIKODE: Actor Augustine died at MIMS hospital here around 10.15am on Thursday. The actor, who had given life to various characters in over 100 films, was 56.
The actor, who epitomized Malabar's own characters on silver screen, had been undergoing treatment for renal ailment for over two years. He had taken a break from acting three years ago, after a stroke left him paralyzed.
Augustine had immortalised character roles in Devasuram, Aram Thampuran, Ravanaprabhu, Chandrotsavam, Mizhi Randilum, Chandralekha, Arabikatha and many other super hit movies. However, film buffs witnessed a comeback of sorts in films like Baavuttiyude Namathil, Indian Rupee and Shutter.
Director of Shutter Joy Mathew said Augustine had inspired him a lot as a stage actor. "I had won several prizes for re-enacting the plays of Augustine," he said.
Actor Kozhikode Narayanan Nair said Augustine had valued friendship above everything and even his presence could enlighten the spirits of colleagues.
Director V M Vinu recollected that Augustine's quench for acting had not ended even when he was hospitalised. "He had assured me that he would act in my film once he recovers," he said.
Augustine is survived by wife Hansy, daughter and actor Ann Augustine and Jeethu.
Directors Renjith, Vinu and Joy Mathew were present at the hospital when the end came. The body was kept for public homage at Kozhikode town hall in the afternoon. Hundreds, including personalities like Suresh Gopi, P V Gangadharan, Idavela Babu, Sudheesh and Nadirsha, were among those who paid tributes to the actor.
The last rights will be performed at St Antony's Church, Paroppadi, at 3 pm on Friday.