Innocent Vareed Thekkethala, known mononymously as
Innocent, was an Indian actor and politician. He predominantly worked in Malayalam films in addition to few Tamil, Kannada, Hindi and English films, mostly in comedic roles. In a career spanning more than five decades, he acted in more than 700 films and is considered one of the best comedians in Malayalam cinema. He also appeared in roles with negative shades such as in
Mazhavilkavadi,
Ponmuttayidunna Tharavu and
Ganamela. Innocent had won several awards, including three Kerala State Film Awards and eight Asianet Film Awards. He served as the Member of Parliament in the 16th Lok Sabha of India representing Chalakudy constituency.