Kannur: The region bid a tearful farewell to Sajeesh Kumar (Babu)  and B.A. Ismail, popularly known as Kunji Ismail, who lost their lives in a tragic car accident on Tuesday evening near Kannavam police station in Kannur.

The two men were walking towards Kannavam town for tea when a speeding car coming from the opposite direction struck them, killing both instantly.

A large crowd gathered on Wednesday afternoon to pay their final respects after the bodies were brought to Kannavam town at around 1 p.m., following post-mortem examinations at Thalassery General Hospital.

Sajeesh Kumar, who had run a tyre puncture repair shop in Kannavam town for nearly 40 years, was a familiar and beloved figure in the area. Ismail was a regular visitor to Sajeesh’s shop as well as the nearby photocopy shop run by K.K. Dinesh.

After the public viewing in Kannavam town, Sajeesh’s body was taken to his home before being cremated at Shantivanam. Ismail was laid to rest at the Kannavam Velumbathu cemetery.

As a mark of respect and protest over the tragedy, shops in Kannavam town remained closed.

Kunji Ismail: A Man Who Cherished Cinema

Ismail, fondly known as Kunji Ismail, was widely recognised in the region for his passion for cinema and acting. Locals affectionately gave him the nickname because of his height — just three and a half feet — and his distinctive thick moustache.

Wherever he went, people would stop to greet him and ask about his well-being. Known for his cheerful nature and love for films, Ismail pursued his dream of acting and eventually landed a role in director Vinayan’s hit film Athbhutha Dweepu.

His memorable performance opened doors to opportunities alongside leading actors including Prithviraj, Jagathy Sreekumar and Guinness Pakru.

During the shooting of films such as Baahubali and Pazhassi Raja in the Kannavam forest, access to filming locations was restricted for local residents. However, Ismail was granted special permission by authorities to visit the sets because of his close association with cinema.

Although he later received further offers from the film industry, unfavourable circumstances prevented him from continuing his acting career.

Ismail passed away before fulfilling one of his biggest dreams — building a home of his own.

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