Veteran actor, Mohan Raj, celebrated for his iconic villain role as 'Keerikkadan Jose', passed away unexpectedly at his residence in Kerala on October 3, 2024, at the age of 70. Mohan Raj died while undergoing treatment for various ailments at his home in Kanjiramkulam.
Mohan Raj became well-known for playing the legendary villain 'Keerikkadan Jose' in the movie, Kireedam that also starred Mohan Lal in the main lead. The actor made a lasting impression on Malayalam industry with his career spanning more than three decades and included numerous noteworthy villain roles. His major works are Uppukandam Brothers, Chenkol, Aaram Thampuran, and Narasimham among others.
Actor and filmmaker, P Dinesh Panicker confirmed the news of Mohanraj's passing in a heartfelt Facebook post, highlighting the actor's iconic role as 'Keerikkadan Jose' in Kireedam. He mourned, “The villain in the movie Kireedam. Mohanraj, who portrayed Keerikkadan Jose, is now a memory.”
Both State Cultural Affairs Minister, Saji Cheriyan and Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan show their condolences on Mohan Raj’s passing. Superstar Mohanlal, who played the lead role of 'Sethu' in Kireedam, wrote an emotional comment on his Facebook page stating that being called and known by the name of a character is a blessing that only an accomplished actor can experience. He posted:
“Our beloved Mohan Raj, who portrayed the immortal character 'Keerikkadan Jose' in Kireedam, has left us. I remember his grandeur standing in front of the camera, facing off against Sethu, as if it were yesterday. With tears in my eyes, I bid farewell to my dear friend, who maintained goodness and humility in his personal life”.
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Mammootty also posted a throwback picture of Mohan Raj and wrote “Tributes to Mohan Raj”. The actor's gesture added a heartfelt tribute to the late actor, honouring his contributions to the film industry. Mohan Raj's memorable performances and powerful screen presence resonated with audiences, and Mammootty’s tribute highlighted the deep respect and admiration shared among his peers. This touching remembrance not only celebrates Mohan Raj’s legacy but also reflects the bond within the Malayalam film fraternity, united in grief over the loss of a remarkable talent.
Over the course of his three-decade career, Mohan Raj portrayed a number of noteworthy villains and made a lasting impression on the Malayalam film industry. Mohan Raj, who was raised in a middle-class Kerala household and earned an economics degree, joined the Indian Army at the age of twenty. But he got a leg injury, so he had to depart. In due course, he cleared competitive exams and became a member of the Enforcement Directorate. He didn’t start acting until he was in his mid-30s, with Moonnam Mura, released in 1988. However, he kept up his work with ED even after he started making movies.
We bid farewell and wish the actor peace in his rest.
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