Telugu comedian passes away

Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, Jun 18 (UNI) Telugu Film Comedian 'Iron Leg' Shastri died following cardiac arrest at his residence in Tadepalligudem near here early today.

He was 44. He is survived by his wife, one son and a daughter.

Born as Gunupudi Viswanath Shastri, he was known as "Iron Leg" Shastri in Telugu cinema, which he entered in 1992. He was introduced to the industry by noted director E V V Satyanarayana.

His first picture was 'Appula Appa Rao. The popular comedian acted in more than 150 films.

Since the last two years, he was in deep finanical crisis.

Mr Shastri was suffering from jaundice for the last few days. He suffered a stroke after midnight last night.

Meanwhile, his family members appealed to Andhra Pradesh government and the Telugu film industry to extend financial assistance to them as they were in penury.

UNI XR VV ADB1435