Malayalam Cinema Loses Icon as Actor-Filmmaker Sreenivasan Dies at 69

Veteran Malayalam actor, screenwriter, director, and producer Sreenivasan passed away on Saturday morning at a hospital in Thrippunithura, near Kochi, at the age of 69. He had been battling prolonged health issues, including cardiac ailments, and was en route to routine dialysis when his condition suddenly deteriorated. Sreenivasan was declared brought dead upon arrival at the hospital around 8:22 a.m.

Born on April 6, 1956, in Patyam near Thalassery in the Kannur district, Sreenivasan made his acting debut in 1976 with P.A. Backer's Manimuzhakkam. Over a career spanning nearly five decades, he appeared in more than 225 films, earning acclaim for his nuanced portrayals of everyday characters infused with sharp wit and social commentary. His collaborations with directors like Sathyan Anthikad and Priyadarshan produced timeless classics.

As a screenwriter, Sreenivasan penned iconic films such as Nadodikkattu, Sandesam, Varavelpu, and Njan Prakashan, blending humour with insightful critiques of society. He also directed acclaimed movies like Vadakkunokkiyanthram and Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala, the latter winning a National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues. His contributions earned him multiple Kerala State Film Awards, Filmfare Awards South, and a National Award.

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Sreenivasan is survived by his wife, Vimala, and sons, Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan, both prominent figures in Malayalam cinema as actors, directors, and producers. Vineeth has carved a niche as a multifaceted artist, while Dhyan has followed in his father's footsteps in acting and filmmaking.

The Malayalam film industry has been plunged into mourning, with tributes pouring in from colleagues who hailed Sreenivasan as a genius storyteller who redefined social satire in cinema. His demise marks the end of an era, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.

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