Fri Oct 04 14:10:48 UTC 2024: ## Veteran Malayalam Actor Mohan Raj Passes Away at 70
**Thiruvananthapuram:** Renowned Malayalam actor Mohan Raj passed away on Thursday evening at his residence in Kaniramkulam, Thiruvananthapuram. He was 70.
Raj, who was battling Parkinson’s disease, had been receiving medical treatment for a long time. He had shifted to Kaniramkulam from Chennai, where he resided, for Ayurvedic treatment a year ago.
He is best known for his iconic villainous role as “Keeരിക്കാടൻ ജോസ്” in the 1990 film “Kireedam”. He had acted in over 300 films across Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu, and even starred in two Japanese films.
Raj’s journey into acting was unconventional. After a stint as a sportsperson in his college days, he joined the army. Due to a leg injury, he left the army and later worked as a Customs and Enforcement officer. It was during his tenure as an Enforcement officer in Chennai that he debuted in the Tamil film “Kazhumalai Kallan”. His subsequent role in the Malayalam film “Aankale Nambathe” brought him to the attention of director Kaladharan, who introduced him to renowned filmmakers Sibi Malayil and Lohithadas.
Raj’s breakthrough came when he replaced another actor who couldn’t commit to the villain role in “Kireedam”. His portrayal of “Keeരിക്കാടൻ ജോസ്” cemented his place as one of the most memorable villains in Malayalam cinema. This pivotal role transformed his career, making him a sought-after actor in all three South Indian languages.
His career, however, wasn’t without its share of challenges. He had to seek permission from the government to act while serving in the Central Government. When he did not get permission, he faced suspension. This legal battle lasted for 20 years until he finally regained his position in 2010. He eventually retired from government service.
Raj is survived by his wife, Usha, and daughters, Jayshma and Kavya.
The Malayalam film industry mourns the loss of this veteran actor, whose contribution to cinema will be remembered for generations to come.
First Piper 