Ramesh Valiyasala, the Malayalam television and film actor who has been in the television serial business for the last 22 years, was found dead at his Thiruvananthapuram home, on Saturday morning. He was 54.
According to a report by The New Indian Express, the actor’s body was found hanging from the bedroom ceiling by his wife around 6:30 am. As per the report, the police have concluded that it was a death by suicide as he had some financial problems due to the Covid-19 induced lockdown.
A case has been registered under section 174 of the Indian Penal Code by the Thampanoor police with regard to an unnatural death and a probe has been initiated.
The actor’s body was moved to the morgue at the Medical College Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. It may be noted that the actor was living with his second wife and son at Valiyasala.
A couple of days prior to the incident Ramesh had come back home after shooting for his upcoming project.
The actor had performed in the last telecasted serial Pournamithingal by Asianet. Before venturing into the Television industry, Ramesh had done many theatre performances during his graduation at the Thiruvananthapuram Government Arts College.
Several artists from the Malayalam film industry including actors Aju Varghese, Manju Warrier, Joju George, Aswathy, Kishor Satya paid tribute to the late actor.
Condoling the demise of Ramesh, actor Balaji Sarma in his Facebook post noted that the duo had acted together for the upcoming film Varaal a couple of days before the incident. “Weren’t you happy when we both acted together a couple of days before for the Varaal film? What was the unbearable sadness for you who was always positive?” he wrote.
Actor K Rajesh Hebbar wrote, “Though actors spend most of their lives under the spotlight, It’s a lonely journey. An uphill fight every single day.I am so sad you chose to stop fighting. Adieu, good friend.” (sic)
Production Controller NM Badusha, sharing the condolence message on his Facebook handle, wrote, “There will be many problems but what’s the use of running away from life?”
The actor is survived by his wife and son.
If you feel or know someone in need of support for suicidal thoughts or behaviour, please reach out to the following helpline numbers —
AASRA- 24×7 Helpline (Hindi and English): +91-9820466726
KIRAN- 24×7 Helpline: 1800-599-0019
