PaperDabba News Desk: 04 October 2024
A wave of grief has swept through the South Indian film industry. Famous in the 1990s for his fierce villain roles, actor Mohanraj breathed his last on Thursday. Hailing from Kerala, Mohanraj acted in over 200 Malayalam, Telugu, and Tamil films. His death has left the film fraternity and fans mourning, with many expressing condolences and recalling the iconic roles that defined his career.
Mohanraj’s Cinematic Journey
Mohanraj made his cinematic debut in 1989 with the Malayalam film *Kireedam*, starring Mohanlal. In the film, he plays the menacing gangster Jose, a role that leaves audiences terrified and cemented his reputation as a potent antagonist. *Kireedam* proved to be a turning point in his career, earning him immense popularity as *Kirikkadan Jose*, a name by which he was known in several subsequent films.
Mohanraj’s villainous roles made him a sought-after actor in Malayalam, Telugu, and Tamil cinema. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, he was a regular fixture in South Indian films, portraying formidable villains in blockbuster after blockbuster.
Mohanraj’s Rise to Fame in Telugu Cinema
Mohanraj entered Telugu cinema in 1990 with the film *Rowdyism Nasinchali*. However, his role as the Gudiwada Rowdy in *Lorry Driver* brought him widespread recognition among Telugu audiences. After the success of *Lorry Driver*, he became a busy actor in Tollywood, frequently collaborating with Balakrishna. Together, they delivered hits like *Nippu Ravva, Bobbili Simham, Lorry Driver, Rowdy Inspector*, and *Samarasimha Reddy*. His intense and memorable performances in these films earned him a permanent place in the hearts of Telugu moviegoers.
Industry Mourns the Loss of a Star
The news of Mohanraj’s passing has left the South Indian film fraternity in shock and mourning. Celebrities like Balakrishna, Mohan Babu, Chiranjeevi, Mammootty, and Mohanlal, among others, expressed their grief on social media. They lauded his contribution to the industry, noting how his distinctive roles and performances left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Mohanraj is survived by his wife, Usha, and two daughters. His family revealed that he had been battling health issues for some time. He was hospitalized recently due to a heart attack, and despite receiving treatment, his condition worsened, leading to his demise on Thursday morning.
Mohanraj’s Filmography
One of Mohanraj’s unique qualities was his seamless ability to work across multiple languages. In Malayalam, he worked alongside stars like Mammootty and Mohanlal, while in Telugu, he played pivotal roles alongside Balakrishna, Chiranjeevi, Rajasekhar, and Venkatesh. Some of his most notable Telugu films include *Shivayya, Shivamani, Sriramulaiah, Raghavendra, Pokiri Raja*, and more. His versatility as an actor allowed him to adapt to various roles, but he will always be remembered for his spine-chilling villain performances.
Stepping Away from the Limelight
Mohanraj gradually stepped away from the film industry after 2004 due to health concerns. His final Telugu appearance was in Shivashankar with Mohan Babu. However, in 2022, he made a brief comeback with the Malayalam film Rorschach, starring Mammootty. In this film, he played the role of the heroine’s father, reminding audiences of his enduring talent.
Before entering the film industry, Mohanraj was a Customs Officer. He worked as an Assistant Enforcement Officer with the Enforcement Directorate. However, once his film career took off, he bid farewell to his government job and fully immersed himself in acting.
A Name Synonymous with Villainy
Mohanraj’s name has become synonymous with influential villain roles in South Indian cinema. He brought a unique intensity to his roles, turning antagonists into unforgettable characters. His collaborations with top stars like Balakrishna, Chiranjeevi, and Rajasekhar in Telugu films made him a household name.
Mohanraj was not only an outstanding villain but also a talented actor who left a lasting impact on the South Indian film industry. His contribution to Telugu, Malayalam, and Tamil cinema will never be forgotten.
