Actor and Karate Legend Shihan Hussaini Succumbs to Blood Cancer at 60

Shihan Hussaini, a celebrated Tamil actor, karate master, and archery pioneer, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday at a private hospital in Chennai, following a valiant struggle with blood cancer. He was 60.

His family confirmed the news via a heartfelt Facebook post, revealing that his mortal remains would be kept at his Besant Nagar residence, affectionately dubbed "High Command," until evening, before being taken to Madurai for the final rites.

Known affectionately as "Hu" to his loved ones, Hussaini's death marks the end of a multifaceted legacy that spanned cinema, martial arts, and selfless service. "I’m very sad to inform that HU has left us," his family wrote, inviting students, archers, and admirers to pay tribute. In a poignant request, they urged his archery disciples to arrive in uniform, bows and arrows in hand, to honor their mentor with a final salute of arrows—a fitting tribute to a man who lived and breathed his passions.

In the days leading up to his passing, Hussaini bravely documented his battle with leukemia on social media, offering raw glimpses into his fight. Just days ago, he shared a profound decision: to donate his body for medical research. "Signed it. This will be used for teaching purposes for anatomy to medical students... Preparing for death but not giving up," he wrote, showcasing his indomitable spirit. The Tamil Nadu government, moved by his plight and contributions, had recently extended Rs 5 lakh in financial aid for his treatment.

Hussaini’s cinematic journey began in 1986 with his debut in Kamal Haasan’s Punnagai Mannan, directed by K. Balachander. He went on to share the screen with icons like Rajinikanth in Velaikaran and Vijay in Badri, where he played a memorable karate coach. His filmography also includes Bloodstone, Unnai Solli Kutramillai, Vedan, Kaathuvaakula Rendu Kaadhal, and Chennai City Gangsters. Beyond acting, he was a fixture on Tamil television, judging reality shows and hosting Athiradi Samayal.

Yet, Hussaini’s true legacy lies in martial arts and archery. A black belt karate expert, he trained stars like Vijay and Pawan Kalyan, leaving an indelible mark on their craft. As a pioneer of modern archery in Tamil Nadu, he mentored over 400 archers and founded the state’s Archery Association. His dedication extended to his final days, as he appealed to Vijay and Pawan Kalyan to preserve his training center and promote archery—a dream he held dear.

Survived by his wife and daughter, Hussaini’s life was a testament to courage and generosity. His body, now destined for Sri Ramachandra Medical University, will continue to educate future generations, ensuring his influence endures. As Tamil cinema and his students mourn, Shihan Hussaini leaves behind a legacy of strength, artistry, and an unwavering commitment to giving back.