The film industry and fans across Kerala are mourning the loss of Santhakumari Amma, the beloved mother of Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal. She passed away on December 30 at the age of 90 at her son's residence in Elamakkara, Kochi.
A Life of Quiet Strength and Devotion
Wife of the late Viswanathan Nair, a retired government servant, Santhakumari Amma lived a life largely away from the public glare. Despite this, she was the cornerstone of her family, raising her children with immense love and dedication. Her life was marked by profound personal tragedies, including the loss of her elder son Pyarilal in 2000 and her husband's demise earlier. Through these hardships, she remained an unwavering pillar of strength for her surviving family, especially for her superstar son Mohanlal.
Described by those who knew her as unassuming, down-to-earth, and a person of strong character, her values became the bedrock of Mohanlal's personal and professional life. Her influence shaped the humility and grounded nature for which the actor is widely admired today.
The Guiding Light Behind a Superstar's Journey
Throughout Mohanlal's meteoric rise from a Malayalam actor to a pan-Indian superstar, Santhakumari Amma was his constant guiding light. The actor has often publicly credited his mother for instilling in him the core principles of discipline, hard work, and kindness—values he adopted as his life's motto.
Despite a demanding career, Mohanlal always prioritized his mother. He made it a point to spend time with her, seek her blessings before every major life event, and visit the parental home whenever possible. Colleagues and friends of the actor frequently attribute his humble demeanor to the upbringing and continuous guidance provided by his mother.
A Mother's Joy: Sharing the Highest Honour
The depth of their bond was poignantly highlighted by Mohanlal himself when he received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest cinematic honour. He declared that the luckiest aspect of that achievement was the opportunity to share that moment of joy with his mother. He acknowledged that her inspiration and support gave him the resilience to navigate the pressures and uncertainties of the film industry.
Family sources recall that she was always present—to celebrate his successes and offer solace during challenging times. Her home was his sanctuary and her counsel his most trusted compass.
A Legacy of Love That Endures
As family, friends, and admirers bid a final farewell to Santhakumari Amma, her most enduring legacy lives on through her son. The lessons of love, simplicity, and integrity she imparted continue to guide Mohanlal, both on and off the screen. Her passing marks the end of an era for the family, but the values she championed remain a solid foundation, echoing her quiet yet formidable presence in the life of one of India's most celebrated actors.
