Malayalam film actor Santhosh K. Nair died on Tuesday after suffering a heart attack following a serious road accident on the MC Road at Enathu. The incident occurred when the car he was travelling in collided head-on with a lorry, leaving multiple individuals injured. The sudden demise of the veteran actor has sent shockwaves across the Malayalam film industry and among his fans, who remember him for his versatility and long-standing contribution to cinema.
According to local reports, residents rushed to the scene immediately after the collision and helped transport Nair, his wife Shubhashree, and the lorry driver to a private hospital in Adoor for emergency treatment. While undergoing medical care for injuries sustained in the crash, Nair reportedly suffered a heart attack. Despite efforts by doctors to stabilise him, he succumbed shortly thereafter. His wife remains under medical supervision, while the lorry driver is also being treated for injuries.
Nair’s passing comes at a time when his latest film, Bharathanatyam 2: Mohiniyattam, is still running in theatres. The film, released on April 10, is a sequel to the 2024 hit Bharathanatyam and is directed by Krishnadas Murali. Featuring an ensemble cast including Saiju Kurup, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Vinay Forrt, and Jagadish, the film is now seen as a tribute to Nair’s enduring presence on screen. It is also scheduled for a digital premiere on Netflix on May 8.
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Born on November 12, 1960, in Thiruvananthapuram, Nair—whose full name was Santhosh Kesavan Nair—came from a family rooted in education. His parents, P. Rajalakshmiamma and CN Kesavan Nair, were both teachers. He spent much of his early life in Pettah, where he was raised by his maternal grandparents after his parents relocated to Ethiopia. He completed his schooling at St. Joseph's Higher Secondary School and later pursued a degree in mathematics at Mahatma Gandhi College.
Nair began his acting career with the 1982 film Ithu Njangalude Katha and went on to feature in over 100 films. Over the decades, he established himself as a versatile performer, seamlessly transitioning between roles as a lead actor, villain, and comedian. His ability to adapt to diverse characters earned him recognition and respect within the industry, making him a familiar face to Malayalam cinema audiences across generations.
His death marks the end of a career that spanned more than four decades, leaving behind a rich legacy of performances. As the industry mourns his loss, colleagues and fans alike are remembering him not only for his body of work but also for his dedication to the craft of acting. With his final film still in theatres, Santhosh K. Nair’s presence continues to resonate, offering a lasting reminder of his contribution to Indian cinema.
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