Kochi: Noted Malayalam actor Captain Raju passed away on Monday. The 68-year-old breathed his last at his residence in Kochi.

The veteran of nearly 500 films, he had acted in several languages including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada. He is best noted for his performance in Mohanlal-starrer 'Nadodikkattu', 'Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha' and 'CID Moosa.'

Masterpiece that released in 2017 was his last movie.

He had suffered a stroke during a plane journey in June and was admitted to a hospital in Muscat, Oman. The funeral will be held at St Mary's Orthodox church at Puthanpeedika North in Pathanamthitta.

A native of Omalloor in Pathanamthitta, Raju forayed into the movie world after completing his military service.

'Raktham' that released in 1981 was his first movie.

'Rathilayam,' 'Aavanazhi,' 'August 1,' 'Pazhassi Raja,' 'Mumbai Police' were some of his other popular movies. He had also directed two movies - Itha Oru Sneha gadha, Mister Pavanayi 99.99.

He is survived by wife Prameela, and son Raviraj.

Mohanlal, Mammootty offer condolences



Condolences poured in as news spread about the actor's death.

Mohanlal said Captain Raju's death is not only a big loss to the Malayalam film industry but also a personal loss to him.

“His death is definitely a big loss for Malayalam industry. He was not just an actor for me. He was like my big brother and today I feel I lost my kindhearted brother. We were emotionally close," said Mohanlal.

Actor Mammootty said, "Captain Raju shared a special bond with each and everyone. On introducing himself to others, he himself would address as Rajuchayan.

"An honest gentleman, he used to be emotional attached to his work. I got the opportunity to work in his last movie 'Masterpiece'. Although he was under treatment, he was willing to take up work," added Mammootty.

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