Tributes are flooding in following the death of renowned actor and filmmaker Sreenivasan, who died in a hospital earlier today (Saturday, December 20). The star’s career spanned more than 50 years, and he tragically died in a hospital in Kerala, India, aged 69. His cause of death is yet to be confirmed, but it has been widely reported in local media that he was suffering from health issues for a while. The actor leaves behind his beloved wife Vimala Sreenivasan, as well as their sons Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan. The family has not yet released a statement about Sreenivasan’s death.
In the wake of the heartbreaking news, actors and filmmakers have shared their tributes on social media.
Director and MP Kamal Haasan penned on X: “Some artists entertain, some enlighten, some provoke. #Sreenivasan did it all, with a smile that carried truth and a laugh that carried responsibility. My respects to a remarkable mind. Deepest condolences to his family and admirers.”
Shashi Tharoor, who is a member of the Indian National Congress, wrote: “Malayalam cinema won’t be the same without the genius of #Sreenivasan. From the satirical bites of “Sandesham”to the raw emotion of “Vadakkunokkiyantram”, he taught us to laugh at ourselves while thinking deeper.
“A true master of the craft who redefined what it means to be a “hero” on screen, & who was an effective director as well. Beyond the actor was a brilliant writer who captured the pulse of Kerala like no other. Sreenivasan’s scripts are time capsules of social commentary, humour, and unparalleled wit. There will never be another observer of life quite like him.”
Actor Urvashi stated the star’s death had been “unexpected”, but did not share any further details.
One of his fans wrote: “There was something so deeply humane about him. Sreenivasan, whatever he touched with his many talents, wasn’t just a true reflection of the Malayali soul; he shaped what it meant to be Malayali. Gone too soon. This one cuts deep.”
Sreenivasan has left an indelible mark on Malayalam cinema, having starred in a range of films, from Sanghaganam to Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam.
He first entered Malayalam cinema in 1976, starring in the film Manimuzhakkam, before going on to become a hugely celebrated actor and director.