Maniyanpilla Raju on his cancer battle: Mammootty and Mohanlal’s support gave me strength to survive

Veteran Malayalam actor and producer Maniyanpilla Raju has opened up emotionally about his recent battle with cancer, crediting superstar friends Mammootty and Mohanlal for helping him find the strength to fight through the toughest phase of his life.In a heartfelt interview with Vanitha, Maniyanpilla Raju shared how their presence and words became his anchor during a time when he felt shattered.Maniyanpilla Raju vividly recalled the moment he was first diagnosed with cancer and the despair that followed. “When I learned I had cancer, I was devastated,” he admitted. But his longtime friend Mammootty’s powerful words gave him a sense of purpose. “I called Mammootty and told him. He simply said, ‘Eda, you need to fight and come back.’ That gave me strength again.” Mammootty’s firm advice reminded Raju that life isn’t measured by how long one lives, but by how bravely one faces the challenges.Despite their packed schedules, both Mammootty and Mohanlal made time to visit Raju at his home during treatment. “Mohanlal is someone who doesn’t even have a minute to spare. Mammootty had to come from Ernakulam to Thiruvananthapuram. The fact that they sat with me, comforted me — that meant so much,” Maniyanpilla Raju said. Other close friends, like actors Ganesh Kumar, Ranjith, and Achankunju, were among the few allowed to visit him due to his weakened immunity.“I don’t think my life is over”The illness took a physical toll — Maniyanpilla Raju lost 16 kilos, can’t handle spicy food, and is still rebuilding his strength. Yet, his ambition remains undiminished. “I don’t think my life is over. I will act again. I will produce films again,” he affirmed confidently. Drawing inspiration from the late actor Innocent, who survived cancer for over a decade, Maniyanpilla Raju believes today’s treatments offer real hope. “There’s no reason to fear cancer anymore. A diagnosis doesn’t mean life is over. I’m still standing, and I plan to be here for a long time.” he declared, smiling through the pain, ready to face the camera once more.On the work front, Maniyanpilla Raju was last seen in the Mohanlal and Tharun Moorthy’s drama thriller film ‘Thudarum’.