Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Mar 21: V G Pal (Venugopal T Kotian), a veteran actor, director, and organizer, passed away on Wednesday in a private hospital in the city due to illness. He was 82.

Pal's career spanned over five decades in Tulu theatre, Kannada, and Tulu movies. He embarked on his stage acting journey in 1961 with the Tulu play ‘Kalchigada Kurukshetra’. Over the years, he showcased his talent in more than 2000 social, historical, and epic dramas. Pal also contributed his voice to over 50 recordings. His notable appearances in Kannada cinema include roles in films like Mahanadi and Jeevanmukhi. Among his significant contributions to Tulu cinema are films such as Bhagyavanthedi, Bayyamallige, Bangar Patler, Sathya Olundu, Tudar, and Maribale.

Prior to his illustrious artistic career, Pal pursued his education in ITI and served as a senior technical assistant in the Fisheries department until his retirement in 2000. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including awards from the Tulu Sahitya Academy and the Karnataka Nataka Academy. His autobiography, ‘Pal Kadal,’ was released during the celebration of his platinum birthday.

Pal was the son of Thaniyappa Kotian and Seethamma. He is survived by his wife Susheela, two sons, and one daughter.

According to family sources, the mortal remains of Pal will be brought to his residence in Bokkapatna at 10 am on Thursday from Yenepoya Hospital and will be available for public viewing.