Actor and director Prathap Pothen passes away

CHENNAI: Noted actor and director Prathap Pothen passed away Friday morning. He was 70. He was found lying dead in his flat in the morning. He has acted in more than 100 films in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu and Hindi. He is also famous as a scriptwriter and producer.

Born in 1952 in Thiruvananthapuram did his schooling in Ootty. He was interested in films while doing his graduation in Madras Christian College. He later acted in an advertising agency in Mumbai.

He started his film career through Aaravam directed by Bharathan in 1978. As a star, he shone in the 80’s in Malayalam and Tamil films. His role in Bharathan’s Thakara won him many accolades. He later acted in Chamaram, Azhiyatha Kolangal, Nenjathe Killathe, Varumayil Niram Chuvappu, Madhumalar, Kathal Kathai, Novemberinte Nashtam, Lorry, Onnnu Muthal Poojyam Vare, Thanmatra, 22 Female Kottayam etc. The characters played by Prathap Pothen in films of K Balachander, Balu Mahendra, Mahendran, Bharathan, Padmarajan etc were noteworthy.

He has directed 12 films in Tamil and Telugu including Oru Yathramozhi, Daisy, Rithubhedam etc. He had scripted for Solla Thudikkithu Manassu. Famous producer Hari Pothen is his brother.

He married Tamil actress Raadhika in 1985. Their marriage did not last long and divorced her in 1986. He then married Amala Sathyanath, a senior corporate professional in 1990. The couple have a daughter named Keya. Their marriage too ended after 22 years in 2012.