Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, on Monday, July 13, 2025:
The Indian cinema fraternity is saddened by the demise of senior stunt master SM Raju, who died on Sunday morning while working on actor Arya’s next film directed by Pa. Ranjith. The death occurred during a dangerous car-toppling stunt, which Raju was performing.
Tamil Film Stunt Trainer Dies on the Sets of Pa Ranjith’s Film in Nagapattinam
The tragic incident occurred in the vicinity of Vizhinjam -avadi village in Nagapattinam district where the shooting of “Vettuvam”, a film from Neelam Productions was taking place. S M Raju alias Mohanraj (52) sustained the fall during the stunt scene at around 10.40 am. He was instantly rushed to the Government Medical College Hospital in Orathur, where doctors pronounced him brought dead. Keelaiyur police have registered a case and are.
Stuntman Raju killed in Arya-Pa Ranjith’s film shoot; actor Vishal mourns his death.
Actor Vishal, who had done a few films with SM Raju over the years, shared the devastating news on X (earlier tweeted). Expressing deep sorrow, Vishal wrote:
“So hard to digest the fact that the Stuntman #Raju who passed away doing car jump mocking stuff for Jammy (@arya_offl) and @beemji Ranjith ‘s film this morning. I have known Raju for so long.
Other Tollywood stars offer helpVishal’s promise to Raju’s family
Besides mourning the loss, Vishal also promised a lifetime of financial support to the family of Raju in recognition of the sacrifices stunt professionals undergo in the field of cinema.
“Not just this tweet — I will be there for his family’s future too. I say from the bottom of my heart and as a matter of my duty And my solidarity to the them. May God give his family more power to bear this huge loss.”
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Salutes also came in from throughout the Tamil film industry. Stunt Silva whom is also a well known stunt choreographer, penned down on Instagram:
“One of our top car-jumping stunt artists, SM Raju, lost his life today while attempting a car stunt. Missing him both in our stunt union & the Indian film Industry.”
SM Raju had acted in several high-octane movies and did some tough stunts to make the action sequences packed.
Film Production Temporarily Halted
The film ‘Sarpatta Parambarai’ sequel that is under making has been put on halt for a while after the shocking incident. Helmed by Pa. Ranjith, who is known for helming Kaala and Kabali, the film features Arya and will release in.3.: Arya sings for the first time in upcoming film Opera directed by Raam’s Yogesh. The second part has long been awaited by lovers of Tamil cinema.
Conclusion
The death of SM Raju, a popular and well known stunt coordinator, is a stark reminder of the perils behind the scenes that the film industry players go through. Though the cameras held, perhaps for a moment, his courage and sacrifice will be there to remind other generations of stunt men and women. Vishal has pledged to stand by Raju’s family is a pointer to the unity in cinema circles.
May his soul rest in peace.
