Actor Vivekh who suffered a massive hear attack on Friday, died early Saturday morning (4:35 AM) according to hospital sources, The Hindu reported. He was 59.

He was taken to SIMS hospital in Vadapalani on Friday morning, after he collapsed at home. He was revived and was hooked up to an ECMO on Friday.

Dr. Raju Sivaswamy, Vice President, Medical Services, SIMS, said, Vivekh had been put on ionotropic support, to help the heart beat, but from about 2 AM on Saturday, his health began to decline, and the blood pressure would not hold. “Resuscitation itself, after he landed in the hospital, took about 45 minutes. There is a condition called reperfusion injury that might occur after this procedure, and causes damage to tissues, when the blood returns to the organ. He could not survive this injury,” he said.

Various film personalities have expressed their condolences. “Deeply saddened by the demise of my close friend, Chinna Kalaivanar and activist Vivekh. Can't forget my association with him during the shooting of Shivaji . My deepest condolences to his family. Let his atma attain peace!", Rajinikanth tweeted.

Director T Rajendhar said that Vivekh was someone who could made people laugh and think. “Though he hasn't directly worked in my film, he has worked my son, Silambarasan and I have also interacted with him ever since he started working with late filmmaker K Balachandar in movies. Everybody knows him as an actor, but he was also a musician. He used to speak about the music in my film appreciatively. After NS Krishnan, actor Vivekh was someone who could make people laugh and think,” he said.

Music director AR Rahman said, “Can’t believe you’ve left us ..May you rest in peace ..you’ve entertained us for decades ..your legacy will stay with us.” While Actor Soori said that Vivekh spoke about social awareness in his films. “Even the trees that he planted today would be crying along with those who he entertained.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled the demise of the actor. "The untimely demise of noted actor Vivek has left many saddened. His comic timing and intelligent dialogues entertained people," Modi said in a tweet. "Both in his films and his life, his concern for the environment and society shone through. Condolences to his family, friends and admirers. Om Shanti," the prime minister said.

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