Malayalam actor-director E.A. Rajendran dies at 71

Veteran actor and theater personality E.A. Rajendran, known for his versatile performances in Malayalam cinema and television, passed away at his residence at Pattathanam, Kollam, Kerala, in the early hours of Thursday (March 26, 2026). He was 71.

The actor had been battling age-related ailments for a considerable period and was undergoing treatment.

A prominent figure in the cultural sphere, Rajendran carved a niche for himself through a wide array of character and antagonist roles. His career spanned decades, during which he became a familiar face to the Malayali audience through several blockbuster films, including Kaliyattam, Narasimham, Meeshamadhavan, Pattabhishekam, and Thachiledathu Chundan. Beyond his cinematic contributions, he was deeply involved in the professional theater circuit and appeared in numerous popular television serials.

Rajendran was the husband of Sandhya, sister of actor and Kollam MLA M. Mukesh, and is survived by his son, actor Divyadarshan.

The mortal remains will be taken to his native village in Thrithallur, Thrissur, where the funeral rites are scheduled to be held on Friday.

Members of the film and drama fraternities and prominent figures from all fields, including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, have expressed their condolences, remembering him as a disciplined artist who brought depth to every role he portrayed.