The Malayalam film industry mourns the loss of one of its most recognizable voices. Veteran dubbing artist and actor Haripad Soman passed away in Chennai at the age of 80. He had been undergoing prolonged treatment following a stroke, as confirmed by reports.
A Humble Beginning and Memorable Roles
Haripad Soman's cinematic journey started modestly with a small role in the film 'Manushyaputhran', which starred the legendary actor Madhu. He never looked back, gracing the silver screen in numerous projects. His filmography includes appearances in movies like 'Guruvayoor Kesavan' and 'Sphodanam', where he left a mark despite often playing smaller parts.
He shared the screen with superstars of his era, acting in several films featuring the iconic Jayan, such as 'Idi Muzhakkam', 'Puthiya Velicham', 'Agni Saram', and 'Chandrahasam'. Soman also appeared in veteran Prem Nazir's films, including 'Ithikkara Pakki' and 'Kaattu Kallan'. His final film work was in the 1992 movie 'Mahan', starring Suresh Gopi, where he provided the voice for a pivotal character.
The Defining Voice of an Era
While his acting was noted, it was in the dubbing booth that Haripad Soman truly became an institution. He stepped into voice artistry in 1980 and, for the next fifteen years until 1995, became one of the most relied-upon and prolific dubbing artists in the Malayalam industry.
From 1980 to 1995, he lent his voice to a wide range of characters in a majority of Malayalam films released during that prolific phase. His voice became synonymous with countless characters, making him an unseen yet integral pillar of the cinema of that time.
Parallel to his dubbing success, he continued his acting career, appearing in popular films like 'Vandanam' and 'Chithram'. During the early cinematic ventures of lyricist-filmmaker Sreekumaran Thampi, Soman was given opportunities to portray more substantial on-screen characters.
A Life Fully Dedicated to the Arts
Haripad Soman's commitment to the performing arts was unwavering. When the heart of Malayalam film production gradually shifted from Chennai to Kerala, he relocated to Thiruvananthapuram to stay connected with the industry. His engagement with the medium never paused.
Beyond the big screen, he actively dubbed for television serials and embraced theatre with equal passion. Demonstrating his versatility, Soman even wrote and directed plays for the Kollam Ganga Theatres, showcasing his deep-rooted love for storytelling in all its forms.
Born to the late Krishnapilla and Bhargavi of Padeettathil, Haripad Muthalapally, he is survived by his wife Padmam, and sons Manikandan and Srihari. His funeral was held on Sunday evening in Chennai, where the industry and his admirers bid farewell to a man whose voice echoed through a generation of cinema.
