Venu, as he was popularly known, was undertaking treatment for jaundice at a Chembur nursing home. He was shifted to Inlaks Hospital after his condition turned serious a couple of days ago.

A NIS-trained coach in handball, Venu was sports manager of the Chembur English High School and Mahatma Education Society. His wife is a teacher in the same school. He managed the Chembur English Sports Club, major promoters of handball and volleyball.

AHAM trasurer Sandeep Joshi said, ``he was devoted to sports. Almost all the inter-school and inter-college tournaments used to be organised by him. He was also very generous, and would readily help a good player.''

The funeral will be held in Kollam, Kerala, his native place.