Mohan Raj (Keerikkadan Jose): A Legend in Malayalam Cinema
Mohan Raj, affectionately remembered as Keerikkadan Jose, was a towering figure in Malayalam cinema, known for his menacing villain roles that captivated audiences for over three decades. His portrayal of the fierce antagonist in Kireedam (1989) earned him widespread recognition, making "Keerikkadan Jose" a household name. Despite his villainous screen persona, Mohan Raj was beloved for his versatility and commitment to Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu films.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in 1951 in Kerala, Mohan Raj initially pursued a career as an assistant enforcement officer before stepping into the world of cinema. He made his acting debut in 1988 with Moonnam Mura, but it was his unforgettable role in Kireedam that marked his entry into the hearts of Malayali audiences. The film, featuring Mohanlal in the lead role, revolved around the struggles of a young man (Sethumadhavan) whose life is derailed by the brutal thug, Keerikkadan Jose. The success of this film cemented Mohan Raj’s place in Malayalam film history.
Iconic Roles in Malayalam Cinema
Mohan Raj appeared in over 300 films across various languages, excelling primarily as a villain. Some of his notable Malayalam films include:
Year | Film | Role |
1989 | Kireedam | Keerikkadan Jose |
1993 | Chenkol | Keerikkadan Jose |
1999 | Pathram | Chandan Bhai |
2000 | Narasimham | Bhaskaran |
2022 | Rorschach | Sujatha’s Father |
His collaborations with major Malayalam stars like Mohanlal and Mammootty brought him into the spotlight repeatedly, earning him a reputation for making villains seem larger-than-life.
Success Beyond Malayalam Cinema
While Mohan Raj primarily worked in Malayalam cinema, he also made significant contributions to Tamil and Telugu films. His commanding screen presence and ability to portray complex villains won him acclaim across the South Indian film industry. Some of his Tamil and Telugu projects include:
Aankalai Nambathey (1987)
Kazhugumalai Kallan (1988)
Chandramukhi (2005)
Narasimha Naidu (2001)
Decline in Health and Death
In recent years, Mohan Raj’s health had been declining. He was suffering from Parkinson’s disease, and his condition worsened due to age-related complications. On October 3, 2024, Mohan Raj passed away at his residence in Kanjiramkulam, Kerala, at the age of 70. His death marked the end of an era, and tributes poured in from fans, colleagues, and admirers from across the film industry(
Hindustan Times
)(
Wikipedia
).
Legacy of Keerikkadan Jose
Mohan Raj's legacy lives on through his unforgettable performances and his influence on the Malayalam film industry. Even though he was known for playing antagonists, his on-screen persona was celebrated, and his roles remain iconic to this day. His portrayal of Keerikkadan Jose continues to inspire new generations of actors, and his contributions to cinema have left a lasting mark on the industry.
FAQs
1. Who was Keerikkadan Jose in Malayalam cinema?Keerikkadan Jose was a popular villain character played by actor Mohan Raj in the 1989 movie Kireedam, which earned him significant fame and recognition.
2. How many films did Mohan Raj act in?Mohan Raj acted in over 300 films across Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu cinema, most notably as a villain in numerous films.
3. When did Mohan Raj pass away?Mohan Raj passed away on October 3, 2024, at the age of 70 after suffering from Parkinson’s disease and other age-related ailments.
4. What was Mohan Raj’s most iconic role?Mohan Raj’s most iconic role was Keerikkadan Jose in Kireedam (1989), a character that left a deep impact on Malayalam cinema.
5. Did Mohan Raj act in languages other than Malayalam?Yes, Mohan Raj acted in Tamil and Telugu films as well, making his mark in the South Indian film industry with memorable performances.
Conclusion:
Mohan Raj, fondly remembered as Keerikkadan Jose, was a force to be reckoned with in Indian cinema. His fierce portrayals of villains, along with his dedication to his craft, made him one of the most memorable actors of his time. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy endures, reminding us of the power of performance and the lasting impact of cinema.
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