A day to remember in Malayalam movie calendar

November 16th marks the death anniversary of Jayan, one of the superstars of Malayalam films. On 16th November 1980, Jayan was killed in an accident on the set of Kolilakkam while shooting for the climax scene in Sholavaram near Chennai. Jayan was 42 and at the peak of his popularity. It was a great loss for the Malayalam film industry.

Had Jayan been with us still, he would have given many more class and style films. Jayan always performed his own stunts. For the shooting of Kolilakkam, he was performing a particularly dangerous stunt that involved him boarding an airborne helicopter from a moving motorbike. Though the shot was accepted by the director in the first take, Jayan insisted on yet another take as he was not satisfied. During the retake, the helicopter lost its balance and crashed along with Jayan, who later succumbed to his injuries.

Jayan was a craze among youth in his times. Even today's youths imitate him and his styles. Jayan is best remembered for his loud, colourful attires, his machismo mannerisms and his unique style of speaking. He was like Rajinikanth of Kerala. The directors also exploited Jayan's masculine physique and he appeared barechested in numerous scenes in films even before one could see Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt and other Bollywood stars in topless mode. His on screen attire -- long collar shirts, Elvis bell bottoms and style -- makes him really unique.

Famous actor Madhu had said in an interview many years back that Jayan will forever will be young and alive in the hearts of all Malayalees. Galatta.com salutes this wonderful hero from Mollywood on his death anniversary. Long live Jayan in the minds of all filmgoers!