On October 3,2024, the South Indian film industry witnessed a big loss with the veteran Mohan Raj- one among the well known faces is this part of country passed away at age of 72. The doyen of Malayalam cinema passed away at his residence in Kanjirankulam, Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, marking an end to the era where he had shone bright in Mollywood as well as Kollywood and Tollywood.
Table of Contents
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Mohan Raj |
| Stage Name | Keerikkadan Jose |
| Date of Birth | Estimated around 1951-1952 |
| Date of Death | October 3, 2024 |
| Age at Death | 72 years |
| Place of Death | Kanjirankulam, Thiruvananthapuram |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Actor, Former Enforcement Assistant Officer |
| Years Active | 1989–2024 |
| Spouse | Usha |
| Children | Two daughters: Jaishma and Kaaviya |
| Notable Roles | Keerikkadan Jose (Kireedam), Gunda (Moonnam Mura), Vikraman (Nagarathil Samsara Vishayam), Yatheendran (Mayavi) |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (187.96 cm) |
| Health Issues | Parkinson’s disease, chronic diabetes |
| Famous Film | Kireedam (1989) |
| Total Films | Over 300 films across Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu cinema |
| Last Film Appearance | Rorschach (2022) |
| Residence | Madurai (Later moved to Thiruvananthapuram for treatment) |
| Legacy | Iconic portrayal of Keerikkadan Jose in Kireedam |
HERE IS SOME INFO ABOUT HOW HE GOT INTRODUCED INTO CINEMA — JUDE LAW!
touching deeper on Mohan Raj and his unique journey to the big screen. He used to work as an Enforcement Assistant Officer before he became an actor. He took a big leap in his careeer with the support of famous malayalam film director Sibi Malayil. This chance choice landed him the role that would go on to define his career Keerikkadan Jose in Mohanlal-starrer 1989 Malayalam classic Kireedam. This iconic role became his stamp in Malayalam cinema as one of the nastiest villains ever.
Mohanlal’s Performance in Kireedam — The Villain To Remember
Those who don’t know, Keerikkadan Jose was not only a villain. Kireedam – He impresses in the negative role of a thug who is out to loot &ijaam (extortion), scaring the whole township residents. He made a powerful appearance and terrifying features on screen. This role was so well done by Mohan Raj that, even after doing more than 300 films, he still got remembered just for playing this one character.
The movie was a commercial success and was praised for its emotional narrative and performances. The film was centered around the character of Sethumadhavan and Mohanlal’s performance as the protagonist whose life falls apart after crossing paths with Keerikkadan Jose was critically acclaimed, being a deciding factor for the success of the film. Years later, Kireedam is a classic and Keerikkadan Jose remains one of the most iconic characters in Malayalam cinema.
Career Highlights and Filmography
Following the success of Kireedam, Mohan Raj became a sought-after antagonist, earning roles in major films across South Indian languages. His physical stature, standing at 6 feet 2 inches tall, and his commanding screen presence made him a perfect fit for villainous roles. Some of his other notable performances include:
- Moonnam Mura (1988) – Played Gunda
- Nagarathil Samsara Vishayam (1991) – Played Vikraman
- Mayavi (2007) – Played Yatheendran
- Rorschach (2022) – His last film appearance as Viswanathan
Throughout his career, Mohan Raj acted in more than 300 films, predominantly as a villain. His on-screen antagonism was so convincing that it shaped the trajectory of his career in Malayalam cinema and beyond.
His Personal Life and His Health Problems
An actor who worked with MS Rajees’s Mind Expressions Theatre Repertory, behind the loud larger-than-life villainous characters that Mohan Raj played in cinema lived an understated personal life. Usha was married to him and they have 2 daughters Jaishma and Kaaviya. A large part of his life was spent living with his family in Madurai (where he grew up) and a little later moving to Thiruvananthapuram for medical treatment.
Mohan Raj had been unwell in recent years and was dealing with Parkinson’s disease besides the other health issues he faced, chronic diabetes being one of them. Ill or not, he still lingered in the hearts of his fans — all of us whispered their names and had our favorite performances that would never fade.
Legacy and Impact on Cinema
Mohan Raj is one of the most talented music directors produced by South Indian cinema, especially Malayalam. He made his grand debut as a composer with CR No. 89 Madras Mail starring Mammootty and Murali. His characterization of Keerikkadan Jose was not just a character it was already a cultural aspect in Malayalam cinema. The role cut through time and set a benchmark in the Holl of Fame for negative roles in Indian cinema.
Fellow actors, filmmakers and fans have been paying tribute over the last few days since his death for his huge influence on cinema. Mohanlal and the rest of Kireedam co-stars paid homage to his rival, while other industry kids talked about what quite a contribution was created by Mohan Raj in helping to make or break the golden age of Malayalam cinema.
A Villain, A Legend
Having done many villain roles, Mohan Raj is a Legend in Indian Cinema. It was intense acting and his unique skill at telling the story by making you hate the character role he portrayed even though you also admired his craft. While the filmdom bid goodbye to Keerikkadan Jose, his unique characters like Mohan Raj will continue to live in the memories of fans and colleagues can only cherish the contributions made by this artist for years to come.
The final dusting of “see you later” is in the way for him at Thiruvananthapuram, where his close circle comprising family members and fans will congregate for his finale. While Mohan Raj is no more, his contribution to the cinema and his unforgettable performances will stay with us forever.
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FAQs-
Who was Mohan Raj?
Mohan Raj, also known by his stage name Keerikkadan Jose, was a popular Indian actor known for his roles in Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu films.
What was his most famous role?
His iconic role was Keerikkadan Jose in the 1989 Malayalam film Kireedam, which earned him widespread recognition.
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