Tamil film industry plunges into mourning as stunt artist Mohanraj dies during daredevil act. See video

The death of popular stunt artist Mohanraj who died while performing a daredevil act for Pa Ranjith's upcoming movie has shocked the Tamil film industry. The artist also known as S M Raju, was performing a high-risk stunt involving a black SUV when the vehicle lost control and flipped violently mid-air and crashed onto the ground. Mohanraj who did not have any visible injuries was found lying unconscious in the vehicle. Though he was rushed to a hospital at least 10 kms away, he succumbed to his injuries.

As per The Indian Express, which quoted a crew member, there were concerns about the loose soil, but Mohanraj had expressed confidence in doing the scene. There are also reports that suggest the makers had promised an additional Rs 2 lakh for doing the scene. 

Actor Vishal was among the first to react to the news of Mohanraj's death saying that the industry lost a brave soul. The actor who is also the General Secretary of the South Indian Artistes Association said he will take all measures to help Mohanraj's family who are heartbroken by the stunt artist's sudden demise.

Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran also took to social media to express his grief. "Rest in peace Raju! So many moments of magic that would have been impossible to film without your skill and guts. You will be missed forever," he wrote. Popular stunt choreographer Stunt Silva remembered Mohanraj as one of the great car-jumping stunt artists in the industry. "Our stunt union and the Indian film industry will be missing him," he wrote.