Prathap Pothan

Pratap Pothen a Malayalee actor is a Tamil language film director who has directed over 30 films, most of which were directed in the 1980s and the early 1990s. His classic movie in Malayalam Yatra Mozhi, in which the legend Sivaji Ganesan and Kerala's superstar Mohanlal came together to give a fine piece of acting, is still cherished in the hearts of the moviegoers. He is set to make a comeback in 2007 with Oru Naal Podhuma.

Early Life

Pratap Pothan was born 'S Pratap Appachan' near Alwaye in Kerala in 1952. Pratap was a Bachelor of Science (Physics) scholar from the University of Travancore (Trivandrum) and was a part of the 'Kalamandir' Actors Troupe of the University which boasted of Veterans like Thilakan and tamil Villian/Supporting Actor Raghuvaran.

Pratap acted in Malayalee film Appupan in 1976 which marked his foray in the film line- owing to a recommendation by his acting coach. This was followed by a number of small and unimportant films- before hitting the jackpot with Satya Parana in 1980 which was a superhit movie and saw the beginning of Sarita. He migrated to the tamil industry in 1981.

Career (1981-1992)

Pratap cecame Pratap Pothan known for his handlebar moustaches and his off the path romances. He was particularly fancied by K.Balachander- to whom he became Assistant in 1982. He acted in over 20 films and directed over 30 films during this period- most of his films being laterally different love stories. His greatest movies were Yathra Mozhi with Sivaji Ganesh and Mohanlal, Kanavil Oruvan starring Prashanth, Tulabharam in Malayalam and Advocate Nanda starring Suresh Gopi.

In 1992, he took a break from acting.

Minor Roles

He has come in very minor roles in Tamil movies- usually in some comedic element. He acted as a director in Velli Thirai released in 2008.

He plans to make a comeback to the acting foray.