Malayalam actor Kollam Ajith died at a hospital in Kerala’s Kochi on Thursday morning. He was 56. The actor was reportedly undergoing treatment for stomach-related ailments.

Ajith made his debut with the 1983 film Parannu Parannu Parannu with director Padmarajan. The actor, who mostly played villains and supporting roles, is known best for films such as Yuvajanotsavam, Nadodikkattu, No.20 Madras Mail, Olympiyan Anthony Adam and Valliettan among others, The Indian Express reported.

He has also starred in a few Tamil, Telugu and Hindi films, and directed Malayalam films Calling Bell and Pakal Pole.

Ajith was last seen in the 2012 film Ivan Ardhanaari, and was planning a bilingual film, Per Shivakami, Vayasu 18, before his death, The Times of India reported. He is survived by his wife Prameela, daughter Gayathri and son Sreehari.