Shihan Hussaini, a celebrated figure in the worlds of martial arts, archery, and cinema, passed away early on Tuesday after a courageous battle with blood cancer. He was 60 years old. Hussaini, affectionately known as “HU,” breathed his last at a private hospital in Chennai, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and excellence in various fields. His family confirmed the news of his passing, expressing their deep sorrow in a heartfelt post on his official Facebook account.
Hussaini was a multi-talented individual whose contributions spanned across martial arts, archery, art, and film. In addition to being a revered karate master, he was an accomplished sculptor and painter. His guidance and mentorship had a profound impact on countless young individuals who took up martial arts and archery under his tutelage.
The Archery Association of Tamil Nadu (TAAT), of which Hussaini was the founding father and serving general secretary, mourned his loss, calling his passing an “irreplaceable void” in the world of archery. Ashwin Kumar Iyer, a spokesperson for the association, paid tribute to Hussaini, acknowledging the incredible legacy he left behind.
“I’m very sad to inform that HU has left us. HU will be at the High Command, his residence at Besant Nagar, until evening,” the family wrote on Facebook. The post also included details about his final rites, which were set to take place at 4 p.m. on the same day at the Royapettah Ameerunisa Burial Ground, Chennai. His students and supporters, many of whom were practitioners of archery and karate, were asked to attend in their respective uniforms to pay their respects.
Throughout his life, Shihan Hussaini’s contributions to martial arts and archery were immeasurable, but he was also a well-known face in the Tamil film industry. He made his acting debut in Kamal Haasan’s Punnagai Mannan in 1986 and went on to appear in several prominent films, including Rajinikanth’s Velaikaran, Bloodstone, Unnai Solli Kutramillai, Badri, Kaathuvaakula Rendu Kaadhal, Chennai City Gangsters, and Vedan. His roles in these films showcased his versatility and solidified his place in the entertainment industry. Shihan Hussaini’s passing marks the end of an era for his family, students, and fans. His immense influence on martial arts and archery, along with his acting career, has left an indelible mark on the community.