Chennai: The sudden death of actor and playwright Crazy Mohan earlier this week, has sent shockwaves in the neighbourhood of T Nagar, Chennai. Many residents who were closely associated with the legend, share their thoughts.
A R Srinivasan, veteran theatre artiste, Sarangapani Street:
I had known Mohan for decades. He developed himself into a multifaceted personality. His humour was classical without any vulgarity and was applicable to all ages.
Mohan also went to on write on saint Ramana Maharishi and I was a great admirer of his paintings too. His passing away is a huge loss for theatre and for the troupe he belonged to.
I pray God to give courage to his brother and actor Balaji, to carry on the good work done by Mohan.
Vijayalakshmi, Tamil scholar, Tanjore Road:
Crazy Mohan was a close friend to my brother and used to frequently visit our house. On one such occasion, he came to know that I write ‘venbas’ in Tamil, and used to discuss about this during every visit.
Later, when I read his work on Ramanar and Andal Thiruppavai, I conveyed my appreciation to him. But Mohan politely enquired about the correctness of his writings and requested to point out errors, if any. He used to attend all our family functions and all of us here are in tears that he is no more.
Appa Ramesh, Senior artiste, Crazy Creations, Ramaswamy Street:
My mentor Mohan was everything to me ever since I played a role in ‘Ore Oru Nimisham’ in Doordarshan. He penned the story and that was the turning point in my drama career, wherein I played the main character of ‘Uppili.’
My association with him dates back to day one of forming Crazy Creations. At the age of 28, I became ‘Appa’ to his younger brother Maadhu Balaji in our debut venture ‘Aladin and 1000 watts bulb.’
All the accomplishments, honours and awards that I have been bestowed so far, are all dedicated to Mohan, a friend, teacher and leader.