Balan K Nair (4th April 1933 to 26th August 2000)was a renowned actor in the Malayalam cinema. He received the national award for best actor in 1981 for the movie ‘Oppol’. His acting in the film ‘Elippaththayam’ (Rat Trap) in 1981 was noteworthy. This film which depicted, in a beautiful way, the master-slave culture prevailed in Kerala, was directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan.
Balan K Nair was born to Raman Nair and Devakiyaamma on 14 April 1933 at Chemencherry in Kozhikkode district. Before stepping into the world of cinema he managed his own metal workshop and worked as a mechanic. At the same time he used to be associated with Calicut Sangamam Theaters. After his marriage with Sharada, he has shifted to Shornur in Palakkad district.
His first movie ‘Nizhalattam’ directed by PN Menon was released in 1972. He then became active in cinema and acted in more than 300 movies. Most of this was in villain characters. He gained the state award for best acting in films ‘Athhithhi’ and ‘Thachol Ampu’. He also received the highest honor Bharath Award for his acting in the film ‘Oppol’ where he acted as a reformed military officer.
‘Eenad’, ‘Aruan’, ‘Oru vadakkan veera gaadha’ are some of the hit pictures. His last picture ‘Kadavu’ was released in 1990. He acted as a boat puller in it. He was alsoi sick for a long time towards end of his life. He passed away on 26 Aogust 2006.