The Indian film industry and fans across the nation are mourning a profound loss. Veteran Malayalam superstar Mohanlal's mother, Santhakumari Amma, passed away on December 30. She was 90 years old and breathed her last at the actor's residence in Elamakkara, Kochi.
A Mother's Heart: Why She Couldn't Watch His Acclaimed Films
In the wake of this sad news, a poignant old interview with Santhakumari Amma has resurfaced, offering a deeply personal glimpse into the bond between the legendary actor and his mother. In a candid television conversation, she revealed the emotional difficulty she faced watching her son in some of his most celebrated but intense roles.
She stated she could never bring herself to watch films like 'Kireedam' or 'Chenkol'. "It is too painful. There are beatings and suffering. I have never watched Chenkol at all. I watched a little of Kireedam and then stopped," she confessed. The on-screen anguish felt unbearably real for a mother's heart. She also mentioned she had not seen 'Thalavattam' and did not wish to.
Instead, Santhakumari Amma preferred movies that showcased Mohanlal's lighter side. She enjoyed the comedy 'Kilukkam' and even admitted to walking out before the climax of the hit film 'Chithram' because she could not handle the emotional weight of the story.
The Quiet Strength Behind the Star
While her son lived his life in the limelight, Santhakumari Amma chose a path of quiet dignity away from public glare. A native of Elanthoor village in Pathanamthitta district, she was married to Viswanathan Nair, a retired government servant. The family relocated to Thiruvananthapuram after he secured a job there.
Her life was marked by personal resilience in the face of tragedy. She endured the loss of her elder son, Pyarilal, in 2000, and her husband earlier. Through it all, she remained a pillar of strength for her family, embodying quiet fortitude.
Film Fraternity Unites in Grief and Tribute
As the news of her demise spread, an outpouring of condolences flooded social media from colleagues and admirers of Mohanlal. Fellow veteran actor Kamal Haasan penned a heartfelt message, writing, "Brother @MohanLal, only you can console yourself... No amount of comforting can compensate for a loss like this. Take care; we all love you."
Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi also expressed his deep sympathy. He tweeted, "My dear friend @Mohanlal, My heart goes out to you on the loss of your beloved Amma. A mother’s presence shapes us in ways words can never express... May her soul rest in eternal peace."
The passing of Santhakumari Amma marks the end of an era for the Mohanlal family. Her simple yet profound love, and the strength she provided away from the cameras, played an indelible role in the life of one of Indian cinema's most beloved icons. Her memory and the touching honesty of her words continue to resonate with fans, reminding everyone of the human story behind the stardom.
