Veteran Malayalam actor Mohan Raj, widely recognized by his stage name Keerikkadan Jose, passed away at the age of 70 at his residence in Kanjiramkulam on Thursday. Sources from the film industry reported that he died while undergoing treatment for various ailments.
Mohan Raj gained immense popularity for his iconic portrayal of the villain Keerikkadan Jose in the 1989 Mohanlal-starrer film Kireedam. His portrayal of the character left an indelible mark on Malayalam cinema, and he became synonymous with villainous roles throughout his over three-decade-long career. Some of his notable films include Uppukandam Brothers, Chenkol, Aaram Thampuran, and Narasimham, among others.
Tributes and condolences have poured in from across the film industry following the news of his passing. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and State Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan expressed their heartfelt condolences, highlighting Mohan Raj’s contributions to cinema and the arts.
Mohanlal, who starred alongside him in Kireedam, took to Facebook to honor his late co-star, reflecting on the blessing of being remembered by a character name. “Our beloved Mohan Raj, who portrayed the immortal character Keerikkadan Jose in Kireedam, has left us,” Mohanlal wrote. He fondly recalled Raj’s commanding presence in front of the camera and lamented the loss of a dear friend who exemplified goodness and humility in life.
Actor Mammootty also extended his condolences, joining the outpouring of grief from fans and fellow actors alike.
Born into a middle-class family in Kerala, Mohan Raj graduated with a degree in economics before enlisting in the Indian Army at the age of 20. Unfortunately, a leg injury forced him to leave the army. He later joined the Enforcement Directorate after passing competitive exams. Mohan Raj began his film career in his mid-30s with the release of Moonnam Mura in 1988 but continued to work with the ED even as he pursued his passion for acting.
Sources By Agencies
