Tamil actor Karthik Sabesh died at the age of 37 on Monday, October 19, just days after the death of his uncle, composer Deva, who passed away on October 17 at the age of 75. An official cause of death has not been revealed, but Karthik had been suffering from health complications.
He had been hospitalised for the past two months undergoing treatment, including dialysis. According to reports, his condition deteriorated over the last two weeks, and he was being treated in the intensive care unit before his death at a private hospital in Chennai.
Family and Final Farewell
Following his death, his body was taken to his home so the public could pay their respects before his funeral. Karthik came from a showbiz family. His father, M. C. Sabesan, widely known as Sabesdh, who died in 2025, was part of the music duo Sabesh–Murali. They composed music for several Tamil films, including Samuthiram, Thavamai Thavamirundhu and Imsai Arasan 23am Pulikesi.
He was a cousin of actor Jai and composers Srikanth Deva and Bobo Shashi.
Career and Tributes
Karthik made his film debut in 2004 in the Tamil movie Dreams and quickly established himself as a favourite with audiences. He went on to appear in films such as Silambarasan’s Vallavan, Kaadhal Solla Vandhen, Pattathu Yaanai, Udhayam NH4, Oru Kanniyum Moonu Kalavaanikalum, Burma and Mahabalipuram.
He was praised for his comic timing and humorous one-liners, with critics commenting on his ability to keep audiences laughing.
Karthik is survived by his wife, Ramya, their two daughters, Brishanithara and Hairanithara, and his elder sisters, Geetha Sabesh and Archana Sabesh.
Tributes flooded in for the star as news of his death became public, with fans taking to social media to share their distress. One Facebook user wrote: "This is sad...Music director Deva's nephew Karthik Sabesh (Music director Sabesh's son) passed away today... 2 days after Deva's death. Difficult time for the family."
Another added: "He always will Act as innocent boy.. his face also looks so innocent and pitty Om Namah Shivaya Thennadudaiye Shivane potri Ennatravarukum Iraiva potri."
A third commented: "Om namah shivaya Deepest sympathy and condolences to the family May his soul rest in peace." A fourth reflected: "So sad. His father passed away last October. His periyappa just passed away few days ago. Now he is also no more. Heartfelt condolences to the family members."
A fifth shared: "There are no words to console the family. The cinema industry has lost one another music composer and it’s a very sad news. My condolences to his family for a great loss. May his soul rest in peace." A sixth commented: "My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Gone too soon. RIP."
