Raghuvaran Velayuthan Nair was born on December 10, 1958, in Kollankod, Palakkad, Kerala, India. He was married to actress Rohini, with whom he had a son named Sai Rishivaran. The couple later divorced. Raghuvaran passed away on March 19, 2008, due to cardiac arrest, attributed to long-term alcohol abuse.

Raghuvaran was a prominent Indian actor known for his work in South Indian cinema, particularly in Tamil films. His career spanned over two decades, during which he appeared in more than 200 films across various languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi. He gained fame for his compelling portrayals of villains and complex characters, showcasing his unique voice modulation and acting prowess. His performances in films like "Mudhalvan," "Anjali," and "Baashha" are particularly celebrated. Raghuvaran's ability to shift between lead and supporting roles allowed him to remain relevant in the industry. Despite his struggles with addiction, he left a lasting impact on Indian cinema, remembered for his versatility and dedication to his craft.