Veteran dubbing artist and actor Haripad Soman has passed away in Chennai at 80 after a prolonged illness. Known for his memorable roles in films like ‘Manushyaputhran’ and ‘Guruvayoor Kesavan’, Soman also lent his voice to numerous Malayalam movies between 1980 and 1995. His career spanned acting, dubbing, and theatre, leaving a significant mark on performing arts.
Veteran dubbing artist and actor Haripad Soman passed away in Chennai at the age of 80 after undergoing prolonged treatment following a stroke as reported by News 18.Haripad Soman’s entry into films began modestly with a small role in ‘Manushyaputhran’, starring Madhu. He went on to act in several films including ‘Guruvayoor Kesavan’, ‘Sphodanam’ and various other projects where he appeared in small but memorable roles. Haripad Soman has acted in several Jayan movies including ‘Idi Muzhakkam’, ‘Puthiya Velicham’, ‘Agni Saram’, and ‘Chandrahasam’. He has also appeared in the veteran Prem Nazir’s films including ‘Ithikkara Pakki’, ‘Kaattu Kallan’.Haripad Soman’s last work was in the 1992 film ‘Mahan’ where he provided voice for a pivotal character. The movie had Suresh Gopi in an important role.
A defining voice of Malayalam cinema
In 1980, Soman stepped into dubbing. From 1980 to 1995, he became one of the most relied-upon voices in the industry,. Soman dubbed for a wide range of characters in a majority of Malayalam films released during that phase.Parallel to his dubbing success, he continued acting and appeared in popular films including ‘Vandanam’ and ‘Chithram’. During the early films of lyricist-filmmaker Sreekumaran Thampi, Soman received opportunities to portray substantial characters.
A life dedicated to performing arts
When Malayalam film production gradually shifted from Chennai to Kerala, Haripad Soman relocated to Thiruvananthapuram. His engagement with the medium never paused. Beyond films, he actively dubbed for television serials and embraced theatre with equal passion. Soman wrote and directed plays for Kollam Ganga Theatres.His funeral took place on Sunday evening in Chennai. Born to the late Krishnapilla and Bhargavi of Padeettathil, Haripad Muthalapally, he is survived by his wife Padmam, and sons Manikandan and Srihari.
