Malayalam film-theater actor Kalasala Babu passes away at 68
Noted Malayalam film-theater actor Kalasala Babu, 68, known for a number of villainous and character roles, passed away at a hospital in Kochi early today. He was suffering from some age-related issues for some time. In his career spanning over three decades, Babu, a multi-faceted actor, had tried his hand in all three major formats of acting: theater, movies, and television serials. Here's more.
Chose acting over dance as his passion
Though he was born to Kathakali genius Kalamandalam Krishnan Nair and Mohiniyattam danseuse Kalyanikutty Amma, Babu chose acting as his passion instead of dance during his college days itself.
Babu started his acting career in 1977
Beginning his acting career as a theater artist, Babu later shifted his focus to tinsel town through the movie "Inaye Thedi" in 1977. After honing his skills with major theater groups like "Kalidasa Kalakendra", owned by thespian O Madhavan, Babu later started a troupe, "Kalasala" and came to be known as Kalasala Babu. He had donned major and minor roles in over 100 films.
Kerala CM paid condolence to his death
The negative roles in Dileep-starrer "Runway", Mammootty's "Thuruppugulam", and Lohitadas-directed "Kasthuriman" made Babu hugely popular among Malayalam movie buffs. He is survived by wife Lalitha, a son, and daughter. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan condoled the death of the actor. He said Babu was known by the name of his drama troupe "Kalasala" and the roles played by him in cinema and serials were remarkable.
