Stuntman Raju Death on ‘Vettuvam’ Set: Car Stunt Goes Wrong, Safety Questions Raised

Date/Location: July 14, 2025 – Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, India

Tragedy has struck the set of acclaimed director Pa. Ranjith’s upcoming Tamil film ‘Vettuvam’, with the news of popular stunt trainer SM Raju’s death during a film shoot in Nagapattinam. The veteran stuntman, aged 54, was killed while performing a dangerous car stunt sequence. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Kollywood film industry and has once again raised urgent, critical questions about the safety protocols in place for stunt performers.

1. Detailed Overview of the Fatal Accident

The incident occurred during the filming of a high-octane action sequence for the much-anticipated movie starring actor Arya.

• The Victim: SM Raju was a respected stunt professional who had worked as a stunt trainer and performer in the Tamil film industry for many years.
• The Film Set: The accident took place on the set of ‘Vettuvam’, a film directed by Pa. Ranjith, who is known for acclaimed films like Kabali and Sarpatta Parambarai.
• The Stunt Gone Wrong: According to initial reports, the sequence involved a car chase. The stunt required Raju to drive a car at high speed. He reportedly lost control of the vehicle, which then overturned multiple times, causing him fatal injuries.
• The Immediate Aftermath: He was immediately pulled from the wreckage and rushed to a nearby hospital, but was sadly pronounced dead by doctors. The local police have registered a case and have begun a thorough investigation into the incident.
  • Source: The Hindu

2. The Unseen Risks: A Look at Safety After the Stuntman Raju Death

This tragic event has cast a harsh spotlight on the often-overlooked dangers and systemic issues faced by stunt performers in the Indian film industry.

• Overlooked Aspect: The Unsung Heroes: Stunt performers are the backbone of any action film, risking life and limb to create thrilling sequences for the audience. However, their work often goes under-appreciated, and they are frequently exposed to immense risks, sometimes with inadequate safety nets.
• A Systemic Problem of Safety?: This incident will inevitably lead to a debate about whether safety standards on Indian film sets are on par with international best practices. Questions are being raised about the adequacy of safety equipment, pre-stunt rehearsals, and the pressure to complete risky shots quickly to save on production costs.
• The Stunt Union’s Long-Standing Demands: The South Indian Cine and TV Stunt Artistes Union has long advocated for better safety protocols, mandatory and comprehensive insurance coverage for all its members, and stricter enforcement of safety guidelines by film producers. This tragedy will undoubtedly amplify their calls for urgent reforms.

Read Also:

• End of an Era: Legendary Actress B. Saroja Devi Passes Away at 87
• A National Tragedy: The Aftermath of the Gujarat Bridge Collapse

3. Evidence-Based Support: Official Statements and Industry Reactions

The film’s cast and crew, along with the wider Kollywood community, have expressed their shock and grief.

• The Police Investigation: The primary evidence in the case will be the statements from eyewitnesses on the set and an examination of the vehicle and stunt equipment. The police will investigate whether there was any criminal negligence on the part of the stunt director or the production house.
• Industry Tributes: The film’s lead actor, Arya, and director, Pa. Ranjith, were reportedly present on set and are in deep shock. An official statement from the production house expressed their profound sorrow and stated their full cooperation with the investigation. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our stunt master SM Raju. Our hearts go out to his family at this difficult time,” the statement read.
  • Source: India Today
• The Wider Reaction: Tributes from other actors and stunt professionals have highlighted Raju’s experience and dedication, making his death even more shocking.
  • Source: NDTV

Conclusion: A Preventable Tragedy That Demands Industry-Wide Change

The stuntman Raju death is a heartbreaking reminder of the real dangers behind the glamour of cinema. It is a devastating loss for his family and the film fraternity. This incident cannot be treated as just another on-set accident; it must serve as a powerful catalyst for a complete overhaul of safety standards and practices to protect the lives of the artists who put their bodies on the line for entertainment.

Accountability Summary:

• The Film’s Production House and Stunt Choreographer are directly accountable for the safety of every person on their set. The investigation will determine if there were any lapses in their duty of care.
• The Film Industry Bodies, including producers’ councils and stunt unions, are accountable for using this tragedy to enforce stricter, non-negotiable safety rules for all future productions.

Urgent Actions Needed:

1. A Thorough and Transparent Investigation: The police must conduct a detailed probe to determine if criminal negligence played a role in this accident.
2. Immediate Review of Safety Protocols: The production of ‘Vettuvam’ should be halted until a complete safety review is conducted.
3. Mandatory Safety Reforms: Film industry unions must push for mandatory safety audits on sets, better medical facilities on standby during stunts, and comprehensive insurance coverage for all stunt performers.