Kesavan Venugopal (22 May 1948 – 11 October 2021), better known by his stage name Nedumudi Venu, was an Indian actor and screenwriter from Kerala, who predominantly worked in Malayalam cinema. He acted in more than 500 films, primarily in Malayalam and also in Tamil in a career spanning nearly five decades. He wrote screenplays and directed one film. Nedumudi Venu won three National Film Awards, three Filmfare Award South and six Kerala State Film Awards for his various performances in various movies.

Early life

Venu was born as Venugopal to P. K. Kesava Pillai, a school master and P. Kunjikkuttiyamma. He had his primary education from NS Higher Secondary School, Nedumudi, and St. Mary's Higher Secondary School, Champakulam. Venu was married to T. R. Susheela. The couple had two sons: Unni and Kannan.

Death

Venu died at KIMS Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram on 11 October 2021, at the age of 73. He was receiving treatment for liver cancer prior to his death and died from COVID-19 complications. He also had diabetes, which complicated his condition. He was cremated with full state honours at Santhikavadam Crematorium in Thiruvananthapuram on 12 October 2021.

Filmography

Awards

National Film Awards

Kerala State Film Awards

Kerala State Television Awards

Asianet Film Awards

Vanitha Film Awards

2015 – Best Actor In A Negative Role – Oru Second Class Yatra

Filmfare Awards

Kerala Film Critics Association Awards

Other awards