Actor who starred in 170 films, once owned a house in Poes Garden, now lives in an old-age home without any source of inome; superstar Rajinikanth steps in with Rs 1 lakh

Veteran South Indian actor and filmmaker Mohan Sharma, who acted in more than 170 films across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada cinema, is now spending his days in an old-age home on the outskirts of Chennai after a dramatic fall from stardom.

The 79-year-old actor, who once owned a house in Chennai's upscale Poes Garden, has reportedly been living at Sri Ramavathar Agarwal Sabha's old-age home in Gummidipoondi, around 50 km from Chennai. His condition came to light after videos highlighting his financial struggles went viral on social media.

Moved by his plight, Superstar Rajinikanth reportedly extended financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh, giving the veteran actor much-needed relief.

Rajinikanth's help became a 'lifeline'

Speaking to Puthiya Thalaimurai, Mohan Sharma thanked Rajinikanth for the gesture.

"I was informed that Rajinikanth came to know about my situation. A few days ago, I received financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh from him. I am managing my life with that help," he said.

Sharma also revealed how his life took an unexpected turn despite decades of success in the film industry.

"I once owned a house in Poes Garden, but I had to sell it. My family life did not work out, I have no money in hand, and there is no one to look after me if I fall sick," he said.

While the old-age home provides free accommodation and meals, Sharma said he had been struggling to buy medicines before Rajinikanth came to his aid.

From film success to financial struggles

According to reports, Sharma has been living in the nursing home after friends helped arrange his stay. The home provides food and accommodation free of cost, while his friends reportedly sponsored a television, refrigerator and air-conditioner for his room.

As per Manorama Online, the veteran actor suffers from multiple health issues and requires nearly Rs 40,000 every month for his medical and living expenses but has no regular source of income.

Sharma has largely remained away from the limelight since his last film appearance in 2020.

A career spanning more than 170 films

Mohan Sharma is regarded as the first South Indian actor to receive formal acting training from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. During a career spanning several decades, he appeared in over 170 films and also produced films.

His notable Tamil films include Akkarai Pachai, Thoondil Meen, Friends, Parthiban Kanavu, Priyamana Thozhi, and Sachien, where he played Genelia D'Souza's father.

Apart from acting, Sharma also served in key industry bodies, including the Film Chamber, and was a member of the National Film Awards jury.

His bilingual film Namma Gramam won widespread acclaim and several national honours. The veteran actor has now appealed to members of the film industry to purchase the satellite rights of the film, saying the proceeds would help him meet his mounting medical expenses.

Rajinikanth's gesture has since drawn widespread appreciation, with many praising the superstar for standing by a senior colleague during one of the most difficult phases of his life.