Malayalam filmmaker Belraj Kalarickal who recently made his directorial debut with the web series ‘Kappi Squad’ passed away on Saturday at the age of 27. According to reports he may have suffered a heart attack, though further details surrounding his death are awaited.According to a report by Cinema Express, he was found dead in a hotel room in Kochi. His sudden demise has left friends and colleagues in the Malayalam film industry in shock, especially as his first directorial project had begun streaming just days earlier.
Filmmaker Rahul Riji Nair pay tribute
Filmmaker and actor Rahul Riji Nair also mourned Belraj’s death, remembering him as a visionary filmmaker and a dear friend. In an emotional post, Rahul spoke about Belraj’s contribution to their production banner and wrote, “With a heavy heart and immense sorrow, we share the tragic news of the passing of our dear brother and guiding light, Belraj Kalarickal, the Director of Kaapi Squad.”He added that Belraj’s passion and dedication had shaped both the production house’s work and its identity.“As one of the founding members of First Print Studios, Belraj wasn’t just a visionary filmmaker and the powerhouse of our creative team, he was one of our own. His dedication to filmmaking and his boundless passion shaped not only our work, but who we are. Without him, First Print Studios will always remain incomplete. We stand in solidarity with his grieving family and friends, offering our deepest thoughts, prayers and unwavering support during this heartbreaking time. Rest in peace, dear Belraj. Your legacy and spirit will live on in our hearts forever,” he further wrote.OTT giant JioHotstar, where ‘Kaapi Squad’ is streaming, paid tribute to the filmmaker through its official Instagram handle. The platform shared a message that read, “Some goodbyes come far too soon. Rest in peace, Belraj Kalarickal.” They further wrote, “You brought Kappi Squad to life. We wish we had more stories to share with you. Gone too soon. Forever remembered.”
Belraj Kalarickal’s film career
Belraj was one of the founding members of First Print Studios, the production house associated with projects such as the award-winning feature film ‘Ottamuri Velicham’ and the web series ‘Kerala Crime Files’.Before becoming a director, he worked as an assistant on films including ‘Nizhal’, ‘Madhuram’ and ‘Dakini’. He also assisted Rahul Riji Nair on projects such as ‘Dakini’, ‘Keedam’ and ‘Kho Kho’.
Belraj had recently got married
Belraj Kalarickal had also recently begun a new chapter in his personal life. He married Athira Bindu Sabu on September 11, 2026, after being in a relationship for six years.