Chennai, Nov 23 (IANS): Tamil writer-director K. Subaash, best known for penning superstar Shah Rukh Khan starrer "Chennai Express", breathed his last on Wednesday here.

Subaash passed away at SRM hospital, here.

"He was suffering from kidney failure and was on dialysis for the last few years. He passed away this morning," a source from the industry told IANS.

Subaash started his career as an assistant to Mani Ratnam in 1987 Tamil film "Nayagan", and a year later he made his directorial debut with Prabhu-starrer "Kaliyugam".

In 1990, he directed Vijayakanth-starrer Tamil actioner "Sathriyana, a blockbuster which earned him immense popularity.

He directed nearly 20 films with last one being 2005 Hindi actioner "Insan", which featured Ajay Devgan, Akshay Kumar , Esha Deol and Lara Dutta.

He had also assisted Rajkumar Santoshi on a few projects.

As a writer, he had worked on Hindi films such as "Sunday", "Entertainment" and "Housefull 3".

Remembering Subaash as a gentle and humble person, write Shridhar Raghavan wrote on his Twitter page:"Many took Subaash's stories and ideas without credit or money. He'd laugh "We are rivers sir. If a needy fellow comes with a bucket, let him."

Actress Radikaa Sarath Kumar wrote: "Very saddened to hear about the passing away of director K Subaash, a long time associate and director of 'Pavithra' film with Ajith and many more. Sad."

The last rites of Subaash will take place on Wednesday.