Kedheeswaran,[1] better known as Bonda Mani (19 September 1963 – 23 December 2023), was an Indian actor who appeared in Tamil language films.
In an exclusive interview with Kumudam, he revealed that he had been cheated by his agent, who promised him that he would make arrangements to get him a job in Tamil Nadu, but allegedly made Bonda Mani sign an agreement that required him to stay in Singapore for five years.
Mani apparently tried to enter the Tamil film industry for seven years, but his attempts failed to bear fruit.
[7] Mani then came back to Sri Lanka in 1990 and launched a grocery shop, naming it "Latha Stores", but suffered an injury due to a bomb attack that left one of his legs nearly paralyzed.
[7] Mani subsequently made a breakthrough after his performance in Thendral Varum Theru (1994) and the film received positive reviews.
[11] Along with commitments as an actor, Bonda Mani ran a stage drama troupe called "Sai Kalai Koodam" and organised theatrical shows.
Bonda Mani personally met the Chief Minister Jayalalithaa to officially join the party.
[citation needed] He fainted when travelling in a bus in September 2022; he was immediately admitted to Omandurar Rajiv Gandhi Hospital for medical treatment and was assisted by fellow comedian King Kong.
[15][16] Bonda Mani was depressed to know that the bill amount was unaffordable for him during that time especially with lack of film opportunities.
He also received financial support from prominent actors including Vijay Sethupathi, Rajnikanth, Dhanush and Samuthirakani.