Hyderabad: Actor Kalpana Ranjani, popularly known as Kalpana, passed away on Monday at Hyderabad. She was 51.
The actor, who was found in an unconscious state in her hotel room, was rushed to Apollo hospital where the doctors declared her brought dead. She is believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest, Malayalam film director Sibi Malayil said.
Kalpana Ranjani was in Hyderabad for shooting a Telugu film and was scheduled to leave for Kerala later on Monday.
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She was declared brought dead at the hospital around 7 am, sources told PTI.
Kalpana had received National award for the best supporting actress for her performance in "Thanichala Njan" (2012).
Sister of actor Urvashi and Kalaranjini, Kalpana forayed into the Malayalam films as a child actor in "Vidarunne Mottukul" in 1977.
Among her other Malayalam hits are "Ennum Eppozhum", "Karnavar", "Dolphins", "Bangalore Days" and "Spirit".
"Kakki Sattai", "Idhaya Thiruda", "Sathi Leelavathi" and "Chinna Veedu" are her notable Tamil films.
The actor's body is expected to be brought to Kerala later on Monday. She is survived by her daughter Sreemayi.
Malayalam actors K.P.A.C. Lalitha, Kaviyoor Ponnamma and Innocent, MP, expressed shock at the demise of the actress, who was best known for her comic roles in South Indian films.
(With inputs from agencies)