Watch | Veteran Tamil Stuntman Killed Performing Risky Stunt In Film Shoot; Safety Lapses Draw Public Outrage
In a tragic incident that has shocked the Indian film industry, veteran stunt performer SM Raju, also known as Mohan Raj, lost his life while executing a high-risk stunt for an upcoming film. The accident occurred on the morning of July 13 during the shoot of ‘Vettuvan’, a new action film directed by Pa Ranjith and starring Arya, in Tamil Nadu’s Nagapattinam district.
Raju, aged 52, was behind the wheel of a black SUV for a dangerous car-flipping stunt. As part of the sequence, the vehicle was meant to launch off a ramp at high speed and topple mid-air, a maneuver requiring precision and perfect conditions. However, the execution went horribly wrong. Caught on camera, the SUV soared into the air but crashed back down violently, overturning multiple times before coming to a stop.
Crew members and bystanders rushed to the scene in desperation, but Raju had already sustained fatal injuries. He was immediately taken to the Nagapattinam Government Hospital, where doctors confirmed his death upon arrival.
Originally from Kanchipuram, SM Raju had built a long and respected career in Tamil cinema, often performing dangerous stunts for films featuring major South Indian stars. Known for his low-key demeanor and dedication to his craft, he was a trusted name in the stunt community.
The incident has sparked serious questions about safety standards on film sets. Neither the film’s director Pa Ranjith nor lead actor Arya has released an official statement as of yet, but the backlash has been swift and vocal. Tributes from fellow actors, technicians, and stunt professionals have flooded social media. While many mourned Raju’s passing, others directed their anger at the industry’s lack of proper safety infrastructure.
A video clip of the crash circulating online has only intensified the public outcry. One user on X (formerly Twitter) posted, “There were no airbags in the car? who is the stunt director?”, another said “What the hell? That’s really sad. These kind of stunts should be automated, at least with the help of remote control or any other possible way with some effigy(sic).” Another asked pointedly, “Where is accountability?”
A more impassioned post read, “Who the hell is going to take this responsibility? Is the hero, Director, Producer, stunt master? Is RIP enough? Who is going to take care of their families? R u going to give any money to them? There are lots of deaths during the cinema shooting.”
Others questioned the necessity of placing a person inside the vehicle in the first place, with one user asking, “Why you have a man inside the car? Why not make it to run automated or use VFX?” Another wrote, “This is soo unfortunate, though being in safety precautions stunt guys getting injured is unpredictable. May his soul rest in peace (sic).”
The incident has reignited debate over stunt safety in Indian cinema, a topic often overshadowed by glamour but fraught with risk. As the industry reels from the loss, calls for stricter safety protocols and accountability grow louder.
Also Read: Iconic South Indian Actress B Saroja Devi Passes Away at 87