Malayalam Cinema Legend Sreenivasan Dies at 69

Kochi, December 20, 2025: Veteran Malayalam cinema artist Sreenivasan passed away on Saturday at the age of 69. His death marks the end of an era in the Malayalam film industry. He was not just an actor but also a respected writer, director, and producer who gave voice to the common man through cinema.

Sreenivasan was known for his sharp writing, honest performances, and bold social commentary. His work reflected everyday struggles, middle-class life, and political realities with humor and depth.

Early Life and Film Debut

Sreenivasan entered the film industry in 1976 with Manimuzhakkam, directed by P. A. Backer. His first major acting role came in Sanghaganam in 1979.

While studying at the film institute, he caught the attention of filmmaker Aniyeri Prabhakaran. This led to his breakthrough role in Mela (1980), which brought him wider recognition.

Rise as a Powerful Screenwriter

The year 1984 became a turning point in Sreenivasan’s career. He wrote his first screenplay, Odaruthammava Aalariyam. The film was a success and marked the beginning of a golden writing career.

He went on to write many iconic Malayalam films, including:
Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Nadodikkattu, Pattanapravesham, Varavelpu, Sandesam, Midhunam, Mazhayethum Munpe, Azhakiya Ravanan, Katha Parayumpol, and Njan Prakashan.

Many of these films combined comedy with strong social and political messages, making his writing both entertaining and meaningful.

A Natural Actor Loved by Audiences

As an actor, Sreenivasan was admired for his natural style. His performances felt real and relatable.

Some of his most loved films include Aram + Aram = Kinnaram, Ponmuttayidunna Tharavu, Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu, Artham, and Chithram. His on-screen chemistry with actor Mukesh remains unforgettable for Malayalam cinema lovers.

Award-Winning Director with Depth

Sreenivasan also made a mark as a director. His collaborations with director Sathyan Anthikad resulted in classics like Vadakkunokkiyanthram and Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala.

Both films won top honors and were praised for their emotional depth and strong social themes. Over his career, Sreenivasan received multiple Kerala State Film Awards and several other prestigious recognitions.

Final Appearances and Legacy

Sreenivasan’s most recent screen appearance was in Aap Kaise Ho?, starring his son Dhyan Sreenivasan. He also appeared in the comedy-drama Kurukkan, which received mixed reviews.

With his passing, Malayalam cinema has lost a fearless storyteller and a powerful voice of social truth. However, his films, characters, and words will continue to live on for generations.