Veteran Malayalam actor and theatre personality E. A. Rajendran passed away at the age of 71 in the early hours of Thursday, March 26, 2026, at his residence in Kollam.

He had been undergoing treatment for age-related health issues for some time.

A respected figure in Kerala’s cultural landscape, Rajendran was widely admired for his versatility, particularly in character and antagonist roles. Over a career spanning several decades, he became a familiar presence for audiences through notable films such as Kaliyattam, Narasimham, Meesha Madhavan, Pattabhishekam, and Thachiledathu Chundan. In addition to cinema, he was actively involved in professional theatre and appeared in numerous television serials.

Rajendran was married to Sandhya, sister of actor and Kollam MLA M. Mukesh. He is survived by his son, actor Divyadarshan.

His mortal remains will be taken to his native village in Thrithallur, where the funeral will be held on Friday.

Condolences have poured in from across the film and theatre communities, as well as public figures including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who remembered him as a disciplined and dedicated artist who brought depth to every role he portrayed.