05 May,2026 04:07 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Santhosh K Nayar (Instagram)
The Malayalam film industry was left in shock after the sudden demise of Santhosh Nair, who died in a tragic road accident in Kerala on May 5, 2026. The veteran actor, known for his extensive body of work across films and television, was travelling with his wife when the fatal incident occurred.
According to reports, the accident took place early in the morning near Adoor in Kerala's Pathanamthitta district. The actor was in an Innova car with his wife, Rajalakshmi, when the vehicle reportedly lost control and collided head-on with a parcel truck on the MC Road near Puthussery. The impact of the crash was severe, causing significant damage to the car and leaving both occupants critically injured.
Local residents and authorities rushed to the scene and immediately shifted the injured to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Santhosh was taken to Adoor Life Line Hospital, where doctors attempted to stabilise him. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after being admitted. Some reports suggest that complications, including a possible cardiac episode during treatment, contributed to his untimely death.
His wife, who was also in the vehicle at the time of the accident, sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment. Her condition has been described as critical, and she remains under close medical supervision. The truck driver involved in the collision was also reportedly injured in the incident.
Santhosh Nair was a familiar face in Malayalam cinema, having appeared in over 100 films throughout his career. He was known for his versatility, effortlessly portraying a wide range of roles including villainous characters, comedic parts, and supporting performances. His journey in the industry began in the early 1980s, and over the decades, he built a strong connection with audiences through his consistent screen presence.
His recent work included appearances in films like Mohiniyattam, which had been receiving attention from audiences. The news of his sudden passing has sent shockwaves across the Malayalam film fraternity, with colleagues, fans, and industry members expressing grief and paying tribute on social media.
The tragic accident has once again raised concerns about road safety and the dangers of high-speed collisions on busy highways. As tributes continue to pour in, Santhosh Nair is remembered not just for his contributions to cinema, but also for the lasting impact he had on audiences over decades.
Celebs from the fraternity express grief, actor Rahman said he was "deeply saddened and shocked" by Santhosh Nair's untimely death. Rahman recalled their long association, sharing screen space often as rivals, and described him as a kind-hearted human and good friend. He also reminisced about their off-screen bond simple moments of laughter, food, and conversations after shoots and said the news left him "heavy-hearted".
Suraj Venjaramoodu expressed that he was devastated upon hearing the news in the morning. Suraj remembered that Santhosh would always make everyone laugh and fondly recalled their time together on the sets of Mohiniyattam, calling it their last film. He said those moments were filled with laughter and bid him an emotional farewell.
