A pall of gloom descended on Kollywood (Tamil film industry) and thousands of fans of Tamil actor Ajith Kumar on Saturday after his mother, Mohini Mani passed away at the age of 89. According to sources, she had been battling health complications.

Mani was a quiet yet influential figure in Ajith’s life, and was widely regarded as one of the strongest pillars behind his remarkable journey from a self-made newcomer to one of Tamil film industry’s biggest icons. After the news of her demise spread, political leaders, film icons and admirers extended their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

Ajith Kumar (Extreme right) and Mohini Mani (Extreme left)

Final rites to be held in Chennai

Reports indicate that Mani had been suffering from age-related ailments from some time, coupled with memory-related issues in the recent years. Her condition gradually deteriorated with age, and she breathed her last at her house in the presence of her close family members.

Family sources said her final rites are expected to be carried out at Ajith’s house in Chennai’s Palavakkam, with relatives and close family members in attendance.

Ajith’s father passed away in March 2023

Mohini was married to P Subramaniam, a native of Kerala’s Palakkad. He passed away in March 2023 following age-related complications.

The couple had three sons, each emerging successful in their respective fields. While their eldest son, Ajith Kumar, rose to fame as one of the most celebrated actors in Kollywood and a professional racer, their second son, Anup, is a stockbroker and investor based in New York. Meanwhile, their youngest son, Anil Kumar, is an entrepreneur and an IIT Madras alumnus residing in Seattle.

Mohini, known to many as Mohini Kumar, hailed from a Sindhi family with roots in Kolkata. She eventually settled in Tamil Nadu and after her husband’s death, continued to live with Ajith and remained under the care of the family.

Ajith Kumar (Extreme left) with his parents

TN CM Vijay, MK Stalin express grief

Tributes poured in from prominent political leaders of Tamil Nadu, such as Chief Minister (CM) C Joseph Vijay and former CM MK Stalin.

Vijay, in his condolence message, said that he was deeply saddened by the loss of the actor’s mother and prayed for her soul’s peace. He also expressed solidarity with Ajith Kumar and his family during the tough period.

Stalin, in his social media message, described the news as heartbreaking and extended his sympathies to Ajith. He noted that no words could truly comfort a son mourning the loss of a mother who had witnessed and had celebrated his achievements throughout life.

Fans stand with their ‘Thala’

Ajith, who is referred to as ‘Thala’ (boss) in Kollywood, received support from his fans too. The fans gathered online to pay tribute to the woman who played a pivotal role behind the scenes in shaping one of Tamil cinema’s most beloved stars.