Former national level footballer Kalia Kulothungan died earlier today in a bike accident in his home town of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. He was 40 years old.

After playing local football in Tamil Nadu, in 2000 Kalia Perumal Kulothungan signed for NFL side FC Kochin. But was send on loan to Integral Coach Factory in Chennai before playing in Kerala.

In 2002, Kulothungan joined Kolkata giants East Bengal Club where he spend two very successful years with especially the 2003/04 season being a great one with the second National Football League triumph in a row and the win of the 2003 ASEAN Club Championship in Jakarta.

After two great seasons, Kulothungan moved to Mahindra United but returned to the red and gold a year later in 2005. A year later, Kulothungan joined Kolkata rivals Mohammedan Sporting Club. Two seasons later, he joined Mumbai FC in 2008 and a year later it was back to Kolkata, but this time he joined Mohun Bagan AC.

Thereafter Kulothungan played for Viva Kerala, United Sikkim FC, Chirag United Kerala, and thrn finally for Bhowanipore FC.

Besides club football, Kalia Kulothungan represented and even captained his home state Tamil Nadu in the Santosh Trophy.

AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das in his message said, “It’s heartbreaking to hear about the tragic death of Kalia Kulothungan. He will be remembered as a talented and creative player who won many a laurel at the domestic level. We share the grief.”

“I have received the devastating news of Kalia Kulothungan’s passing,” laments Mohammedan Sporting Club assistant ground secretary Belal Ahmed Khan. “I am still reeling from the shock of hearing this sad news.”

“Kalia Kulothungan may be gone but he will never be forgotten. His memory will linger on in the hearts and minds of the Mohammedan Sporting Club faithfuls.” he added.

Both East Bengal and Mohammmedan Sporting have lowered their club flags at the club premises as a mark of respect.