Veteran Malayalam cinema icon Sreenivasan passed away on Saturday, December 20, at the age of 69, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy as an actor, writer, director, and producer. His death marks the end of an era for Malayalam cinema, which he shaped with honesty, humour, and sharp social insight for decades.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the Malayalam film industry. Actors, directors, and fans took to social media to remember a man whose work reflected everyday life with rare courage and warmth.
Heartfelt tributes from the film fraternity
Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran shared an emotional message on Instagram, calling Sreenivasan one of the greatest storytellers the industry has ever seen. He thanked him for the laughter and thought-provoking cinema before bidding farewell to the legend. The two had previously worked together in the acclaimed film Celluloid.
Director and actor Basil Joseph also posted a moving tribute, recalling how Sreenivasan’s work shaped his childhood and countless happy memories. He wrote that while the legend may no longer be with us, his stories will continue to live on through his films.
Actor Indrajith Sukumaran shared a deeply personal note, remembering Sreenivasan as an inseparable part of his early cinema experiences. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share screen space and bring Sreenivasan’s powerful dialogues to life.
A filmmaker who spoke to society
As a director, Sreenivasan delivered some of Malayalam cinema’s most meaningful films. Movies like Vadakkunokkiyanthram and Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala earned widespread acclaim for their emotional depth and bold social commentary. His storytelling often held up a mirror to society, blending humour with hard truths.
Over the years, his contributions were recognised with multiple Kerala State Film Awards and several prestigious honours, cementing his place among the industry’s most respected creative minds.
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His final appearances on screen
Sreenivasan was last seen in Aap Kaise Ho?, directed by his son Dhyan Sreenivasan. He also made a recent return to the screen with the comedy-drama Kurukkan, reminding audiences of his timeless screen presence.
Though Sreenivasan is no longer with us, his words, characters, and fearless storytelling will continue to influence generations of filmmakers and movie lovers. Malayalam cinema mourns a legend, but celebrates a legacy that will never fade.