The Malayalam film and television industry is mourning the sudden demise of former child artist Hari Murali. The 27-year-old actor was reportedly found dead at his home in Annur in Payyannur. Hari Murali was the son of actor K. U. Murali and he had received much recognition as a child artist in Malayalam cinema and television.
Acting career began with ‘Rasikan ‘
Hari Murali started his acting journey at a very young age and he first appeared as a child artist in the Malayalam film ‘Rasikan’ that had Dileep in the lead and was directed by Lal Jose.After that debut he went on to appear in several films during his childhood. His filmography includes Annan Thampi, Madambi, Don, Pattanathil Bhootham, and Ulakham Chuttum Valiban, among others.Several of these projects were directed by Anwar Rasheed and during that phase of his career Hari Murali reportedly appeared in around 10 to 15 films.
Popular presence on television
Apart from films, Hari Murali also became well known through television serials and over the years, he appeared in nearly 40 serials.Among them were popular shows such as Kayamkulam Kochunni and Kuttichathan. In Kayamkulam Kochunni, he played the role of Kochunni’s son.Another serial titled ‘Rahasiyam’ also contributed to his growing popularity among viewers.After some time, Hari Murali decided to step away from acting and he chose to focus on his studies and other interests during that period.Years later, he briefly returned to the screen with a small role in the Malayalam film ‘Amar Akbar Anthony’.
Last days in Payyannur
According to reports by Malayala Manorama, Hari Murali had recently visited his hometown. Just a few days before his death many locals had seen him attending a theyyam event in Payyannur. Friends recall that he appeared cheerful and energetic during the gathering.Although Payyannur was his native place, Hari Murali and his family had been living in Kochi for many years.He had reportedly returned to his hometown after a long time to attend a wedding and meet relatives and it was during this visit that the unexpected tragedy occurred.Friends also revealed that he had been going through a difficult phase recently. According to them Hari Murali had been battling deep depression and had closed all his social media accounts.
Early life and family background
Hari Murali’s father, Payyannur Murali, is a theatre director and actor and because of this background he spent much of his childhood around theatre camps and performance spaces. Family and friends fondly called him “Appoos.”His extended family also has strong connections to the film industry as Chidambaram, Ganapathi, Deepak Parambol, Babu Annoor, and Manoj K. U. are among his relatives.
