Mankombu Gopalakrishnan Passes Away at 78: A Huge Loss for Indian Cinema

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Renowned Malayalam lyricist, dialogue writer, and screenwriter Mankombu Gopalakrishnan passes away, leaving behind an incredible legacy in Indian cinema. The 78-year-old writer took his last breath on March 17, 2025, at a private hospital in Kochi after suffering from heart failure.

Gopalakrishnan had been hospitalized for a week, and despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his illness. With his passing, the Malayalam film industry has lost one of its most celebrated literary figures, known for his poetic lyrics and compelling dialogues.

SS Rajamouli Mourns as Mankombu Gopalakrishnan Passes Away

As news broke that Mankombu Gopalakrishnan passes away, tributes began pouring in from celebrities and filmmakers across the industry.

Famed director SS Rajamouli, who worked with Gopalakrishnan on multiple projects, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his sorrow.

“Sad to hear about the passing of legendary Malayalam writer Mankombu Gopalakrishnan sir. His timeless lyrics, poetry, and dialogues have left a lasting impact. Grateful to have collaborated with him on the Malayalam versions of Eega, Baahubali, and RRR. Om Shanti.”

Gopalakrishnan was responsible for the Malayalam dialogues and lyrics for Baahubali: The Beginning, Baahubali 2: The Conclusion, RRR, and Eega, helping bring these films to Malayalam audiences with cultural depth and authenticity.

Mankombu Gopalakrishnan Passes Away: A Legacy of Over 700 Songs and 200 Films

As the film fraternity mourns the news that Mankombu Gopalakrishnan passes away, many remember his extraordinary career that spanned decades.

  • Wrote over 700 songs in more than 200 Malayalam films.
  • Collaborated with legendary composers like Ilaiyaraaja, AR Rahman, MM Keeravaani, and Yuvan Shankar Raja.
  • Contributed to screenplays, dialogues, and song lyrics for some of Malayalam cinema’s biggest hits.
  • Played a pivotal role in translating pan-India films into Malayalam, making them accessible to a wider audience.

His mastery over language and storytelling earned him a special place in the hearts of movie lovers across generations.

Mankombu Gopalakrishnan Passes Away: His Most Iconic Songs

Among the many songs he penned, some have stood the test of time and remain evergreen classics.

Notable Songs Written by Mankombu Gopalakrishnan

  • Oru Punnaram
  • Sugandhi Sumukhi
  • Ilammanjin Kulirumaayi
  • Palaruvi Naduvil
  • Navaneetha Chandrike Thiri Thaazhthoo

His ability to infuse deep emotions into lyrics made his songs timeless, touching the hearts of millions.

Mankombu Gopalakrishnan Passes Away: Contributions to Pan-India Films

While Mankombu Gopalakrishnan was a celebrated name in Malayalam cinema, he also played a significant role in bringing major pan-India films to Malayalam audiences.

  • Wrote lyrics and dialogues for the Malayalam versions of Baahubali, RRR, and Eega.
  • Worked on Ranbir Kapoor’s Animal, penning lyrics for the Malayalam version of all songs.
  • Helped bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, ensuring that these films resonated deeply with Malayalam viewers.

His work ensured that Malayalam audiences experienced the true essence of pan-Indian films, making him an irreplaceable asset to the industry.

Mankombu Gopalakrishnan Passes Away: Was He Supposed to Work on SS Rajamouli’s Next Film?

With SS Rajamouli currently working on a pan-India film starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra, there was speculation that Mankombu Gopalakrishnan was supposed to be part of the project.

Although there is no official confirmation, given his long-standing association with Rajamouli, many believed that he could have been involved in the Malayalam adaptation of this highly anticipated film.

This project is expected to be one of the biggest pan-India releases, marking Mahesh Babu’s debut in nationwide cinema and Priyanka Chopra’s much-awaited return to Indian films.

With Mankombu Gopalakrishnan passing away, the industry loses a gifted writer who could have contributed significantly to this grand venture.

Mankombu Gopalakrishnan’s Enduring Legacy in Indian Cinema

As the Malayalam film industry mourns, the passing of Mankombu Gopalakrishnan leaves a void that can never truly be filled.

Key Takeaways from His Legacy:

  • Over 700 songs and 200 films in Malayalam cinema.
  • Worked with musical legends like Ilaiyaraaja, AR Rahman, and MM Keeravaani.
  • Contributed to the Malayalam versions of Baahubali, RRR, and Animal.
  • Played a crucial role in making pan-India films accessible to Malayalam audiences.
  • His poetic lyrics and dialogues will be remembered for generations.

As the industry bids farewell, one thing is certain—Mankombu Gopalakrishnan’s words will live on forever in the melodies and films he gifted to the world.

Rest in peace, Mankombu Gopalakrishnan. Your legacy will never be forgotten.

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