A villain on screen, a farmer at heart: Meghanathan’s journey of humility and resilience

For Meghanathan, acting was a calling, but farming was his refuge. Amid the bustling world of cinema, he found solace in his paddy fields at Shoranur, where he returned whenever his schedule allowed.

The son of iconic actor Balan K Nair, Meghanathan grew up surrounded by the world of cinema. He often spoke about his father, who would arrive home at Shoranur on the Madras Mail in the morning, only to leave again at night. It was during those days that Meghanathan’s love for films began to take root.

When the family moved to Madras, Meghanathan’s proximity to the film industry deepened. He accompanied his father to sets and grew up amidst filmmakers and actors. Although he never acted in school plays, his fascination for cinema only grew. His close interactions with legendary directors like P N Menon left an indelible mark on him.

 

For the son of a celebrated on-screen villain like Balan K Nair, it seemed inevitable that he too would be cast in similar roles. However, Meghanathan’s father had always advised him about the challenges of relying solely on cinema. Taking this advice to heart, Meghanathan equipped himself with knowledge in agriculture and automobile engineering alongside his acting pursuits.

The first major purchase Meghanathan made from his earnings was a tractor, reflecting his passion for farming. Known more as a farmer than an actor in his village, Meghanathan preferred the simplicity of rural life over the glitz and glamour of cinema. “Many people grow arrogant when they gain fame in films,” he once said. 

“I somehow never felt that way. Perhaps my limitations kept me grounded. I am Balan K Nair’s son, and I live by his values. When he went to receive the National Award, he wore a simple mundu. That is the legacy I follow,” he added.

As Malayalam cinema evolved, so did Meghanathan. In the era of menacing villains transitioning into one of comedic and character roles, Meghanathan also embraced this change. His portrayal of a loving family man in Action Hero Biju remains one of the highlights of his career.

Meghnathan’s journey in cinema was interspersed with breaks. His first film, Astram by P N Menon, was followed by Panchagni. Afterward, he stepped away to continue his studies. He returned to prominence with films like Chenkol and Chamayam, excelling in villainous roles.

However, his career faced interruptions due to personal setbacks. During the filming of Prayikkara Pappan, a car accident left him bedridden for six months. Later, while shooting Ee Puzhayum Kadannu, a role that showcased his versatility, Meghanathan regained his stronghold in the industry. But another accident on the set of Kudamaattam left him with a severe leg injury, requiring months of rest.

Despite his fame, Meghanathan remained deeply connected to his roots. His grounded nature and humility made him a beloved figure both in the film industry and his village.

On Thursday afternoon, Meghnathan’s mortal remains were laid to rest in his family compound, near the resting places of his father Balan K Nair, and his recently deceased brother Ajayakumar.

He is survived by his wife Sushmita, daughter Parvathy, son-in-law Adithyan, and siblings Anil Kumar, Sujatha and Swarnalatha.

Meghnathan’s life was a beautiful blend of cinematic brilliance and rural simplicity—a legacy that will continue to inspire.