The Tamil film industry is reeling from the tragic death of veteran stunt coordinator Mohanraj during the filming of 'Vettuvam,' directed by Pa. Ranjith and starring Arya. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, July 13, saw Mohanraj, 52, collapse on set in Alappakkudi, Nagapattinam district, during a dangerous car stunt. He was rushed to Nagapattinam Government Medical College Hospital but was sadly declared brought dead.
This shocking event has led to a significant police investigation, with a case initially registered and subsequently revised to include serious charges against Director Pa. Ranjith and others involved in the production. Initially, the Keelaiyur Police registered a case under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Act. However, following the post-mortem examination on Monday morning and analysis of findings from the medical team and eyewitness accounts, the charges have been intensified.
The case is now booked under Sections 289 (Negligent conduct), 125 (Abetment of an offence), and 106(1) (Culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the BNS Act. Besides Pa. Ranjith those named as accused include Vinoth (stunt choreographer), Rajkamal (Neelam Productions), and Prabhakaran. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has strongly condemned the incident, releasing a statement on July 14 on X.
The widely circulated video shows Mohanraj speeding in a car, which was intended to launch from a ramp. The vehicle, however, lost balance in mid air and crashed, alarming the crew. Team members quickly rushed to the vehicle, only to find Mohanraj tragically deceased. This horrifying footage has intensified public scrutiny and raised questions about accountability within film productions.