Telugu film industry shocked by Uday Kiran's death

Several Telugu film personalities today expressed shock and grief over the death of actor Uday Kiran, who is suspected to have committed suicide at his residence here late last night.

"It is very sad. I knew him even before he had a moustache. He was a decent and good-natured person. He would never harm anyone. I am feeling sad because I gave him a break," director Teja, who directed Uday Kiran's debut film 'Chitram', said here.

'Chitram' (2000), a teenage love story, had become a trend-setter of sorts in the Telugu film industry.

"If he (Uday Kiran) was depressed, it is only natural. Any actor would be depressed if he does not have films," Teja said.

Prominent Telugu music composer R P Patnaik, who composed music for 'Chitram', recalled fond memories of the late actor. "This is a shocking news for me. I was speechless after hearing this. He had a strong willpower.

"It is hard for me to believe that he has committed suicide. He has a good following even now. He could have rebounced with one good hit. I have some beautiful memories with him," Patnaik said.

Actor Srikant said he was saddened by Uday Kiran's death. He was  a strong-willed person who wanted to do well in life, Srikant added.

Several other Telugu actors expressed shock and sorrow, including Rallapalli, Vijay Chandar. TDP MLC N  Rajakumari too expressed grief.

In a career spanning 13 years, Uday Kiran (33) acted in about 20 films. After the splendid success of his debut film 'Chitram', he went on deliver two back-to-back hits: `Nuvvu Nenu' and 'Manasantha Nuvve'.

Some of his other popular films include 'Gunde Jhallumandhi' and 'Sreeram'. He had also acted in a few Tamil films, including 'Poi', directed by veteran director K Balachander.