A late-night collision has thrust Malayalam cinema icon Manian Pillai Raju back into the headlines for all the wrong reasons. Arrested today in Thiruvananthapuram for allegedly causing a hit-and-run accident, the 70-year-old actor faces serious charges after his car rammed into a motorcycle, injuring two riders grievously.
Eyewitnesses at Trivandrum Club reported seeing Raju’s luxury sedan clip a speeding Royal Enfield around 9:30 PM. The impact hurled the bikers onto the road, but the actor purportedly accelerated away without rendering aid. Quick police work, aided by vehicle registration and surveillance cameras, traced the car back to him within hours. He was taken into custody amid a media frenzy.
Charged with negligent driving and absconding post-collision, Raju was subjected to mandatory health checks. Toxicology reports are pending, and any positive alcohol reading could lead to drunk driving accusations, potentially prolonging his legal woes. Meanwhile, the injured duo battles for life in intensive care, highlighting the human cost of such recklessness.
Raju’s illustrious career began humbly with ‘Mohiniyattam’ in 1976, exploding into fame via the 1981 blockbuster ‘Manianpilla Adhava Manianpilla.’ His filmography boasts over 400 credits, blending humor with pathos masterfully. As a producer, hits like ‘Hai Auto,’ ‘Chota Mumbai,’ and ‘Pavada’ cemented his legacy. Yet, this scandal threatens to tarnish that reputation.
Kerala’s film fraternity remains tight-lipped, but public outrage is mounting on social media. Authorities vow a thorough probe, emphasizing zero tolerance for hit-and-runs. As Raju navigates this crisis, the incident serves as a grim reminder of road safety imperatives for all, famous or not.