Malayalam actor Meghanathan, last seen in Asif Ali's Kooman, dies at 60

Veteran Malayalam actor Meghanathan, celebrated for his impactful villainous roles, passed away in Kozhikode on November 21 at the age of 60. The actor was undergoing treatment for respiratory-related ailments at a hospital, where he breathed his last at 2 a.m. His funeral will take place at his residence in Shornur, according to reports.

Meghanathan, the son of legendary actor Balan K Nair, leaves behind his wife Susmitha and daughter Parvathi. Born in Thiruvananthapuram, he was part of a family with two brothers, Anil and Ajayakumar, and two sisters, Latha and Sujatha. He was the third child of the veteran star. He completed his primary education in Chennai and later earned a diploma in automobile engineering from Coimbatore.

Acting Career

Meghanathan began his acting career in 1983 with Asthram, directed by PN Menon and quickly became known for his distinctive performances in negative roles. Over his illustrious career, he appeared in more than 50 Malayalam films and several Tamil projects.


His breakthrough came in 1986 with Panchagni, where he played the role of Ravi. In the same year, he delivered one of his most iconic performances as Keerikkadan Sunny in the Mohanlal starrer, Chenkol. Known for his versatility, he excelled not only in antagonist roles but also in supporting characters.

Some of Meghanathan’s notable films include Chamayam, Ee Puzhayum Kadannu, Malappuram Haji Mahanaya Joji, Udyanapaalakam, Oru Maravathoor Kanavu, Nerariyan CBI, Vaasthavam, Crime File, and Picket 43. His recent appearances include a prominent role in the Asif Ali-starrer Kooman, which was well-received by audiences, and as Excise Minister K. Ramachandran in Mammootty’s political thriller One. His last film was Samadhana Pusthakam.
Meghanathan was also featured in several popular television serials, including Chitta, Sthreetvam, Kathayariyathe, Snehanjali, and Meghasandesham among others.

Meghanathan has worked with popular actors like Mammootty, Mohanlal, Dileep, Suresh Gopi, Jayaram, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Asif Ali and others. His unique acting style and significant contributions to Malayalam cinema will be remembered fondly by fans and the film industry alike.