Kochu Preman, a well-known Malayalam film-theatre actor, died on Saturday at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram after a brief illness, according to his family members. He was 68.
According to reports, the actor was being treated for a lung condition. In his decades-long acting career, Preman was known for his distinct style of dialogue delivery and facial expressions.
His comic roles in blockbuster films made him famous among moviegoers. Preman began his acting career as a thriving theatre artist before breaking into mollywood with the 1979 film ‘Ezhu Nirangal.’
His slapstick parts in blockbuster films such as ‘Dilliwala Rajakumaran,’ ‘Pattabhishekam,’ and ‘Thilakkam’ were unforgettable. In addition, the actor appeared in a variety of television serials. Preman leaves behind his actor-wife Girija and a son.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, state Assembly Leader V D Satheesan, ministers, and MLAs were among those who expressed their condolences on the death of the veteran actor.
Though diminutive in stature, his height was never an issue when it came to playing comedic parts. He was recognised for his line delivery, especially when he was at ease in the famous Thiruvananthapuram dialect. Preman, born in the state capital, is survived by his actress wife and their kid.