Popular stunt artist SM Raju, died on the set of Pa Ranjith and actor Arya's upcoming film. The tragic accident took place on July 13, 2025, while Raju was performing a car‑toppling stunt for the Tamil film. The news of Raju's death was confirmed by Tamil actor-producer Vishal on his X handle (formerly known as Twitter).
Actor Vishal mourns stuntman SM Raju's death
Vishal who had collaborated with Raju on several projects over the years, paid an emotional tribute to the departed soul. He wrote, "So difficult to digest the fact that stunt artist Raju passed away while doin a car toppling sequence for jammy @arya_offl and @beemji Ranjith’s film this morning.
"Have known Raju for so many years and he has performed so many risky stunts in my films time and time again as he is such a brave person."
Extending his support to the family, he wrote, "My deepest condolences and may his soul rest in peace. May God give more strength to his family for their grave loss. Not just this tweet but will definitely be there for his family’s future, being from the same film industry and also for his contribution to so many films. From the bottom of my heart and as my duty I extend my support for them. God bless."
Renowned stunt choreographer Stunt Silva also mourned the tragic death of Raju. He wrote on Instagram, "One of our great car-jumping stunt artists, S.M. Raju, died today while doing car stunts. Our stunt union and Indian film industry will be missing him."
Pa Ranjith, Arya, or other members of the film are yet to react or release a statement on the death of SM Raju.
