New Delhi: Malayalam comedy superstar, who has worked in over 750 films, passed away at the age of 75 in Kochi’s VPS Lakeshore Hospital on 26th March.
As per the medical report, multiple organ failure, respiratory issues, and cardiac arrest were listed as the reason for his demise. He has been admitted to the hospital since March 3.
To address him as an actor would be undermining because Innocent has excelled in all aspects of life.
In the 16th Lok Sabha elections, Innocent defeated Congress stalwart PC Chacko for the Chalakkudy constituency as an independent candidate. For 18 years, he presided over the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).
A gifted writer, he authored as many as 5 books. He also wrote for magazines and newspapers.
His journey from a debt-ridden factory worker to becoming a veteran of cinema is an inspirational tale that deserves more attention.
Failure in businesses
Innocent dropped out of school in 8th class over difficulties in understanding school lessons. In search of work, he went to work in his brother’s matchbox factory in Davangere, Karnataka.
As a factory manager, he would often travel to Chennai, a hub of cinema. This is where Innocent realized what he was really passionate about. However, as his attention drifted to acting, he lost command over his factory and ran into neck-deep debts.
His brother sent him back to his hometown where he tried his luck once again with a leather business and renting cycles. Neither of these reaped any positive results.
Began Political Career
Devastated, Innocent decided to change the trajectory of his life and entered the realm of politics, his other passion besides acting. He became the district secretary for the Revolutionary Socialist Party in the 70s.
Then finally, he pursued his acting and filmmaking career. Although his debut year was 1972, it was the 1989 film Ramji Rao Speaking that made him a household name in South India.
From there on, Innocent bagged iconic roles in comedy back to back and established his mark in the industry. He also started a production house with David Kachappilly, making 4 award-winning movies.
