The multi-talented, Shihan Hussaini passed away on March 25, 2025, after a rigorous battle with blood cancer. Read to know more about his journey.
Shihan Hussaini was a karate expert who also worked predominantly in Tamil film industry. He was the brother of actor, Ishaq Hussaini and was widely known for his act of devotion towards politician, Jayalalitha. He was also the centre of attention for the media for his world-record attempts.
Shihan Hussaini rose to fame for his achievements as a karate instructor. He also set up a school to help young martial arts fighters. However, he soon debuted as a romantic hero in K. Balachander's 1986 film, Punnagai Mannan. The film was a massive success and prompted other filmmakers to sign him. He then played the antagonist in Rajnikanth's Velaikaran and R.K. Selvamani's Moongil Kottai. During the late '80s and early '90s the actor also got a chance to work on the Hollywood production films, Bloodstone, Unnai Solli Kurtamillai and Vedan.
Shihan Hussaini was a huge devoted follower of the politician, Jayalalitha. He even painted 56 portraits for her on her 56th birthday. However, it was not the paintings that garnered attention; it was the material he used to make them. In 2013, he unveiled a frozen blood sculpture of the politicians. The sculpture was allegedly made with 11 litres of blood. He used his own blood and the blood donated by his archery disciples for the artwork. The action unruffled several critics who accused him of sycophancy. In 2015 he attempted to crucify himself wearing an 'Amma' T-shirt.
Earlier in March 2025, Shihan Hussaini made a post on Facebook sharing that he had donated his body for medical research. He revealed that his body would be used to teach anatomy to medical students. Shihan further admitted that he was happy to be teaching even after his death. His post read:
"DONATED MY BODY FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH. The Dean of Sri Ramachandra Medical University & Research Institute, Dr Balaji, has sent a consent form for my body donation. Signed it. This will be used for teaching purposes for anatomy to medical students. I was very, very happy to be teaching even after my death. I thank Dance master kala, who took the initiative to connect with Dr.Balaji to do the needful. 'Preparing for death but not giving up !'"
Shihan Hussaini was diagnosed with blood cancer a while back. He had been actively sharing his journey on social media, keeping fans informed of every step, decision, and procedure he went through. However, he was not only battling cancer. He was also diagnosed with aplastic anaemia. For the unversed, aplastic anaemia is a rare yet severe hematologic condition. In this, the body fails to make the required number of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells and blood platelets. Shihan Hussaini fought a tough battle with cancer and passed away on March 25, 2025.
What are your thoughts on Shihan Hussaini's love for Jayalalitha?
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