Veteran stuntman Mohanraj dies in tragic mishap during Tamil film shoot
By : Krishna Mishra
S Mohanraj, also known as S M Raju, a respected stunt coordinator with over 30 years of experience in Tamil cinema, tragically passed away on Sunday morning while filming a high-risk car stunt for director Pa Ranjith’s upcoming sci-fi action film Vettuvam. He was 52.
The fatal accident occurred around 8 am at a salt pan in Vizhunthamavadi village, Nagapattinam district, during the very first take of the day. The stunt, involving a skidding SUV, was Mohanraj's own idea. Despite the loose soil conditions, he felt confident about the maneuver. He was also set to receive an extra ₹2 lakh for the stunt — a motivating factor, according to crew members, due to financial need.
However, shortly after initiating the stunt, Mohanraj suffered health complications while still inside the car. Though he was rushed to the nearby Government Medical College Hospital in Orathur, doctors declared him dead on arrival. Eyewitnesses said there were no visible injuries, but he collapsed inside the SUV right after completing the skidding motion.
Vettuvam, starring Arya, Attakathi Dinesh, Shabeer Kallarakkal, and Sobhita Dhulipala, had been in production for nearly three months. Following the accident, filming was halted and the team returned to Chennai.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the film and stunt communities. Actor Vishal expressed his condolences, calling Mohanraj a “brave person.” Veteran stunt coordinator Silva remembered him as one of India’s finest car stunt experts. Prominent industry voices like Sham Kaushal and Aejaz Gulab also spoke out, calling it a harsh reminder of the risks stunt performers take.
Sugumar, secretary of the Stunt Artists’ Association, said Mohanraj had contributed to over 500 films in his career. “His courage and work ethic are beyond words,” he said.
Mohanraj’s death comes just months after the demise of another stuntman, S Ezhumalai, during the filming of Sardar 2. Both incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns in the industry.
Mohanraj is survived by his wife and children. A police case has been registered and a post-mortem was conducted. The stunt community mourns the loss of a man who, even after decades in the field, led by example — always ready to take the first leap into danger.
Top Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran summed up the sentiment with a heartfelt tribute:
"Rest in peace Raju! So many moments of magic would’ve been impossible without your skill and guts. You will be missed forever.”