Malayalam Cinema Mourns the Loss of Legend Sreenivasan (1956–2025)

December 20, 2025: The world of Malayalam cinema has lost one of its most profound creative voices. Renowned actor, screenwriter, and filmmaker Sreenivasan passed away today at the age of 69. He breathed his last at approximately 8:30 a.m. at a hospital in Thripunithura, Kochi, following a prolonged battle with cardiac and age-related ailments.

According to reports, Sreenivasan experienced physical distress while being transported for a scheduled dialysis session. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he was declared brought dead. The news has sent shockwaves through the film fraternity and among millions of fans who grew up watching his sharp-witted characters and socially relevant stories.

A Legacy of Satire and Soul

Sreenivasan was far more than an actor; he was the conscience of the common man on the silver screen. In a career spanning nearly five decades and over 225 films, he redefined the “hero” archetype. Instead of the invincible superstar, he chose to portray the flawed, struggling, and often insecure middle-class man.

As a screenwriter, his pen was his most potent tool. He mastered the art of social satire, using humor to critique political hypocrisy, unemployment, and the changing social fabric of Kerala.

• Political Landmarks: His 1991 film Sandesham remains the gold standard for political satire in India, featuring dialogues that have become permanent fixtures in Kerala’s cultural lexicon.
• Iconic Collaborations: His partnership with director Sathyan Anthikad and actor Mohanlal produced timeless classics like Nadodikkattu, Gandhinagar 2nd Street, and Varavelpu.
• Directorial Excellence: Films he directed, such as Vadakkunokkiyanthram and Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala, won National and State Film Awards for their deep emotional resonance and psychological depth.

Tributes Pour In

Following the news, tributes have flooded in from all walks of life. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed his deep grief, calling Sreenivasan’s death an “irreparable loss” to the cultural landscape of Kerala.

Veteran actor Mammootty was among the first to reach the residence in Kochi to pay his last respects. Colleagues and younger stars like Prithviraj Sukumaran and Narain shared heartfelt messages on social media, thanking the legend for “the laughs and the thoughts” he inspired.

Final Journey

Sreenivasan is survived by his wife, Vimala, and his two sons, Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan, both of whom are prominent figures in the industry today.

With his passing, an era of realistic, grounded, and intellectually stimulating storytelling comes to an end. However, his “Pavanayi” and “Dasen-Vijayan” characters will continue to live on in the hearts of cinema lovers forever.