AVM Saravanan, a prominent figure in Tamil cinema and the owner of AVM Studios, passed away on December 4, 2025, at the age of 86 due to age-related health issues. His family confirmed that he died early in the morning at his residence within the studio premises in Chennai. Saravanan had been receiving treatment for several months and had faced declining health in recent years.

Born in 1939, Saravanan was the son of legendary filmmaker A.V. Meiyappan, who founded AVM Productions. Saravanan took over the management of the studio in 1958, alongside his brother M. Balasubramanian. Under his leadership, AVM Productions became synonymous with quality filmmaking, producing numerous iconic films that shaped the Tamil film industry. Notable works include Naanum Oru Penn (1963), Samsaram Adhu Minsaram (1986), Minsara Kanavu (1997), Sivaji: The Boss (2007), and Ayan (2009).

His contributions to cinema earned him immense respect, and he played a crucial role in launching the careers of major stars like Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Saravanan was also known for his leadership in the industry, having served as the Sheriff of Madras in 1986.

His body will be available for public homage at AVM Studios until 4 p.m. on the day of his passing, allowing friends, family, and industry members to pay their respects. The funeral is scheduled to take place at the AVM Electric Crematorium later that evening. Saravanan is survived by his son, M.S. Guhan, who continues to manage AVM Productions, ensuring the legacy of this esteemed studio endures. The Tamil film fraternity and fans are mourning the loss of a visionary who significantly influenced the landscape of Tamil cinema for over six decades.