Who Is Thilakan? Age, Biography and Wiki
Thilakan, born on July 15, 1935, was a prolific Indian actor celebrated for his versatile acting skills and significant contributions to Malayalam cinema. As of 2025, he would have been 90 years old, having left an indelible mark on the film industry before his passing in September 2012. Thilakan's legacy continues to inspire upcoming actors and fans alike. He starred in numerous films and received multiple awards, cementing his status as a legend in Indian cinema. On his Wikipedia page, you can find detailed information about his extensive career and accolades.
Occupation | Voice Actors |
---|---|
Date of Birth | July 15, 1935 |
Age | 77 Years |
Birth Place | Aranmula, Travancore State, British Raj (present day Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India) |
Horoscope | Cancer |
Country | India |
Date of death | 24 September, 2012 |
Died Place | Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India |
Popularity
Thilakan's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Thilakan stood at a height of approximately 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm). As for his weight, it was estimated to be around 70 kg (154 lbs) during his active years. While specific body measurements are not available, his presence on screen was characterized by a robust and commanding appearance, fitting his powerful roles.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Thilakan was married to his wife, K. U. Radhakrishna, and they had a close-knit family with children who continue to honor his legacy. His personal life, dedicated to family and artistry, was marked by love and respect. While the public was less informed about his dating and relationship status outside of marriage, Thilakan was known for his dedication to his craft and family, placing them above all else.
Thilakan started his full-time career in acting after leaving college in the year 1956. During this period he and several friends formed a drama troupe called the Mundakayam Nataka Samithy in Mundakayam, where his father was working as an estate supervisor.
He worked with the Kerala People's Arts Club till 1966, followed by stints in Kalidasa Kalakendram, Changanacherry Geetha, and P. J. Antony's troupe. He also performed in several radio plays presented by All India Radio.
Net Worth and Salary
In 2025, given the inflation and posthumous recognition of his contributions to the arts, Thilakan's net worth is estimated to be significant, reflecting both his storied career and the ongoing reverence for his work. Though there is no precise figure publicly available, it is widely understood within the industry that veteran actors like Thilakan amass substantial legacies through various endorsements, performances, and royalties, particularly from successful films.
Career, Business and Investments
Thilakan's career spanned several decades, with notable performances in films such as "Kireedam," "Chidambaram," and "Sargam." His unique ability to embody complex characters earned him numerous accolades, including Kerala State Film Awards. Beyond acting, he also ventured into directing and scriptwriting, showcasing his multi-faceted talent within the arts.
In terms of investments, while detailed records are limited, it is noted that many actors of his stature often invest in real estate and other ventures, contributing to their overall net worth. Thilakan's legacy continues to inspire future generations, making his discography and intellectual property valuable and sought after.
Thilakan was the second of the six children of P. T. S. Keshavan of the Palappurathu house (1904–1972) and Devayani Amma (1912–2010). He had his primary education from Asan Pallikoodam, Manikkal and St. Louis Catholic School, Nalamvayal, M. D.
Seminary School Kottayam and Sree Narayana College, Kollam.He served in military while Jawaharlal Nehru was the Prime minister before starting his acting career. Thilakan lived in Ayroor until he started acting in films for which he moved to Trivandrum.
Social Network
Although Thilakan passed away in 2012, his social media presence continues through tributes and fan pages dedicated to his work. These platforms serve as a way for fans to celebrate his contributions and share memories of his performances. They are also an excellent resource for new audiences to discover his incredible filmography.
For a long time, Thilakan dealt with numerous health issues like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. He was hospitalized multiple times due to these problems. Finally, he was admitted to Jubilee Mission Hospital in Thrissur on 1 August 2012 after he collapsed during the shooting of the film Scene Onnu Nammude Veedu.
He was then shifted to KIMS Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram, and was in critical condition after suffering two heart attacks. Besides having cardiac problems, Thilakan was suffering from pneumonia. He was put on a ventilator and died on 24 September 2012. He was cremated with full state honours.
Education
Thilakan's educational background is rooted in the traditional arts. While specific details about his schooling are sparse, he was known for his strong foundation in the performing arts, which he honed through various local theater productions before transitioning to films. His commitment to education and growth in acting is reflected in his dynamic performances throughout his career.