Malayalam actor-director E.A. Rajendran passes away at 71

Veteran actor - director E.A Rajendran has passed away at the age of 71. He breathed his last at his residence in Pattathanam, Kollam reportedly.As reported by Manorama Online, E.A. Rajendran had been undergoing treatment for a long time due to age-related ailments.

A native of Thrithallur in Thrissur district, Rajendran is survived by his wife, Sandhya Rajendran.

Journey from theatre to cinema

Rajendran started his artistic journey at a young age. During his school days at Thrissur UP School he actively participated in drama performances.After completing his college education, he joined the National School of Drama in Delhi. He graduated with first rank in acting and later pursued a television course at the Film Institute in Pune.

Notable film career

E.A. Rajendran appeared in around sixty films during his career. He played both villainous and character roles in several superhit films. Apart from films he was also active in popular television serials.He made an early appearance in V.R. Gopinath’s 'Greeshmam'. However, he faced a period without opportunities in the film industry. After a long break he returned with the classic film 'Kaliyattam' which was directed by Jayaraj.

Rajendran has acted in several films including 'Pranayavarnamgal', 'Daya', and Jayaram's 'Pattabhishekam'.

Beyond acting and personal life

Rajendran also made his mark as a director in theatre and also in other creative fields. He served as the Chairman of the State Horticulture Corporation as well. Rajendran was also the brother-in-law of actor Mukesh.Earlier in 2025, Rajendran addressed concerns about his health in an interview with YouTube channel Mainstream One.

He clarified that his weight loss was intentional.“I reduced weight as per the doctor’s advice to manage my sugar levels. Age is also catching up, and I need to stay careful. My son is acting now, and we are also running a production company. I am one of the leading producers of serials in South India,” he said.His mortal remains will be kept for public homage in Kollam. Later, they will be taken to his hometown in Thrissur. The funeral rites will be held on the next day at his residence in Thrithallur, Thrissur.