Senior journalist and political critic Gnani breathed his last in the early hours of today in Chennai. Aged 64, Gnani was said to have had medical ailments and had undergone regular dialysis. He is survived by his wife and son, Manush Nandan who’s a popular Bollywood cinematographer. His body is kept in his house in KK Nagar and will be donated to a hospital.

Being known for his strong political views, Gnani has always voiced out his opinions loud against anybody. Gnani was often seen in English and Tamil debate sessions on politics and literature. Gnani was the editor of a Tamil Magazine, Dheemtharikida. The sudden demise of Gnani has put many people into grief.

Actors, politicians, journalists and writers have been visiting his home since morning to pay their respects. Rajinikanth also visited Gnani's house to pay his final respect during which he said, "Gnani was a very brave person who always spoke what he felt was right. I am deeply saddened by his death. My condolences to his family."