Celebrated Malayalam actor Nedumudi Venu died at a private hospital in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram on Monday. He was 73. Nedumudi Venu was hospitalized because of health complications. Considered one of the finest actors of Malayalam cinema, Nedumudi Venu acted in over 500 films. Following the news of Nedumudi Venu’s death, tributes for the veteran actor poured in from celebs of the Malayalam film industry. South cinema superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran mourned Nedumudi Venu in a tweet, referring to the late actor as “legend”: “Farewell Venu uncle! Your body of work and your expertise over the craft will forever be research material for generations to come! Rest in peace legend,” he tweeted.

A “heartbroken” Dulquer Salmaan posted this note for Nedumudi Venu: “Rest in Peace Venu uncle ! One of our finest actors and one of the kindest human beings.”

Tributes also poured in from the likes of actor-director Revathy, who wrote: “Remembering you with a lot of Love and Respect. The simple thoughts you shared to better my performance will always remain a lesson learnt dedicated to you. May your loved ones be blessed with the courage to accept your departure. With fond memories.”

Nedumudi Venu, who stepped into the world of acting as a theatre artiste, made his debut in Malayalam cinema with G Aravindan’s 1978 film Thambu. In a career spanning over 40 years, Nedumudi Venu’s featured in versatile roles. Aaravam, Oridathoru Phayalwan and Kallan Pavithran are some of his best known movies. Nedumudi Venu won two National Awards in his career and a Special Jury Mention.