Malayalam film and television actor Dileep Sankar was found dead in his hotel room in Thiruvananthapuram, on Sunday, December 29. A source in the Kerala Police revealed that Shankar had checked into the hotel two days prior. Hotel staff grew suspicious after noticing no activity from his room and a foul odor emanating from it. Upon breaking open the door, they discovered the actor's body.
Police were immediately notified, and officers arrived to investigate. Police estimate that Shankar died at least two days ago. Cantonment police SHO Peajeesh Sasi told the media that the hotel's AC was functioning, which likely slowed the body's decomposition.
While the exact cause of death remains unclear, police sources confirmed that Shankar had been experiencing health issues and that he was undergoing treatment for the same. An investigation is underway in the case.
Sankar was known for his roles in several Malayalam serials, including Amma Ariyathe, Sundari, and Panchagni. He was reportedly in Thiruvananthapuram for the shooting of Panchagni. The show's director informed police that Sankar had been suffering from a serious illness, though the nature of the illness was not disclosed.