The final chapter in the life of Malayalam cinema's beloved storyteller, Sreenivasan, was written on Sunday morning as he was cremated with full state honours at his residence in Kandanad, near Tripunithura, Kochi. The versatile actor, writer, and director, who passed away at 69, was bid an emotional farewell by thousands of admirers, colleagues, and political leaders, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema.
A Sea of Mourners Pays Final Respects
From the early hours of Sunday, a massive crowd comprising people from all walks of life converged on his residence at Kandanadu. The police faced significant challenges in managing the immense gathering and ensuring the timely completion of the cremation rituals. The scene was one of profound grief, with the house witnessing highly emotional moments as the body was taken to the funeral pyre.
In a poignant and symbolic gesture before the final rites, renowned director Sathyan Anthikkad placed a pen and a piece of paper on Sreenivasan's body. The paper bore the heartfelt message, "may good things happen to everyone," a tribute fitting for a writer whose work often reflected humanism and empathy. The funeral pyre was lit by his elder son, Vineeth, in the presence of his younger son, Dhyan.
Condolences Pour In From Across the Spectrum
The ceremony saw the presence of notable personalities who came to pay their last respects. Tamil superstar Suriya, CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan, and opposition leader V D Satheesan were among the many who offered homage to the departed soul.
Condolences for the cinematic legend flowed in from across the country. Congress general secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi expressed her sorrow, stating that his humane storytelling touched countless hearts. Her message underscored the wide-reaching impact of Sreenivasan's work beyond the borders of Kerala.
The End of a Storied Career
Sreenivasan, one of the most influential figures in Malayalam cinema, breathed his last on Saturday morning at the Government Taluk Hospital in Tripunithura. He was 69 years old. The actor had been grappling with health issues for some time and had undergone heart surgery in 2022.
His final journey began when he developed breathing difficulties while travelling for dialysis to a private hospital in Kochi. He was immediately shifted to the government hospital in Tripunithura, where he passed away. His death marks the loss of a creative genius who excelled as a character actor, a witty and insightful screenwriter, and a thoughtful director, leaving behind a rich legacy of films that critically and humorously examined societal norms.
The cremation with full state honours was a testament to his immense contribution to the cultural fabric of Kerala and Indian cinema as a whole. His unique voice and memorable characters will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.
