Death hoaxes of celebrities are not uncommon. The latest celebrity to be targeted is veteran and legendary actress Manorama.
News of her death surfaced on the internet and Whatsapp on Monday, creating a frenzy among media as well as fans.
Reports claimed that Manorama, who is popularly known as "Aachi", had passed away at a hospital in Chennai.
However, the actress reportedly issued a press release soon in which she stated that she was safe and healthy. Manorama, in telephonic interview with Telugu media, said she has no clue about the fake reports. She also asked public not to believe in such rumours and said she was looking forward to working in three new movies.
The actress recently underwent treatment after complaining of severe chest pain and other health issues. But, she is reportedly recovering now.
Manorama is one of the senior-most actresses in South Indian cinema and has been part of the industry for the past five decades.
The actress has appeared in more than 1,500 movies and 1,000 plays. She has been in films with five Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, including CN Annadurai, M Karunanidhi, MG Ramachandran, Jayalalitha and Dr NT Rama Rao.
Manorama has been conferred with Padmashri in 2002, Kalaimamani Award by the Tamil Nadu government, and Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award South in 1995. She has also won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress in "Puthiya Pathai" (1989).
Manorama married SM Ramanthan in 1964, who was the manager of her drama troup. The couple got divorced in 1966 and has a son named Bhoopathi.