Malayalam director Belraj Kalarikkal dies at 28, found dead in Kochi hotel room

Young Malayalam director Belraj Kalarikkal has died at the age of 28. He was found dead in a hotel room in Kochi on October 17. His sudden death has plunged the Malayalam film industry into mourning. The web series "Coffee Squad", released recently, was the first work he directed.

Belraj was a resident of Manimala in Kerala's Kottayam district. He was staying at the Kochi hotel with Sreekanth, the director of the series. When Belraj did not open the door despite the bell being rung several times, his death came to light. Preliminary information suggests the cause was a heart attack. Police are investigating the case. Police said the body would be handed over to relatives after the post-mortem.

"Coffee Squad", directed by Belraj, was released on JioHotstar on October 15. Four episodes had been released to viewers, while 36 episodes in all had been shot. For Belraj, who had only just stepped into direction, it was a major milestone, but news of his death has cast a shadow of grief over that joy.

After his death, JioHotstar paid tribute to him from its official Instagram account. The platform wrote: "Some goodbyes come too soon. Belraj Kalarikkal, rest in peace."

Filmmaker and actor Rahul Riji Nair also expressed grief. He described Belraj as a visionary filmmaker, a close friend and a creative partner. In his post, Rahul wrote that the news of the death of Belraj Kalarikkal, director of "Coffee Squad", was deeply saddening. Belraj, one of the founding members of First Print Studio, had played an important role in building the production house's identity through his work. His commitment, dedication and passion for filmmaking left a deep impression on his colleagues.

Rahul said with emotion that First Print Studio would be incomplete without Belraj. Joining in the grief of Belraj's family and friends, he paid tribute to the late director.

Before making his name as a director, Belraj worked as an assistant in the Malayalam film industry. He contributed to films such as "Nizhal", "Madhuram" and "Dakini". He also assisted Rahul Riji Nair on projects such as "Dakini", "Keedam" and "Kho Kho". His journey with First Print Studio was also notable. The production house has been associated with award-winning projects such as "Ottamuri Velicham" and "Kerala Crime Files".

A new chapter had also recently begun in Belraj's personal life. After a six-year relationship, he married Atheera Bindu Sabu on September 11, 2026. He had been married for only a month when news of his death came. His wife and family are devastated.

With his untimely death, the Malayalam film industry has lost a promising artist who began his career in direction at 28. Friends, colleagues and admirers in the film industry are expressing deep sorrow.