The Ernakulam Town Hall in Kochi witnessed a poignant gathering reminiscent of a cinematic reunion, but one overshadowed by profound sorrow. The familiar faces of Malayalam cinema, led by megastar Mammootty, assembled not for celebration, but to bid a final farewell to the beloved actor and writer Sreenivasan. The atmosphere was heavy with a grief that echoed the personal loss felt across Kerala.
A Final Salute from Industry and Fans
Thousands of admirers, from all walks of life, formed long queues to pay their last respects to the artist who had been a constant presence in their lives. For many, Sreenivasan was the consummate performer whose impeccable comic timing and relatable humour turned everyday struggles into memorable cinema. For others, he was the fearless writer who sharpened the social conscience of Malayalam films, giving a powerful voice to the common man. His unique talent offered something deeply personal to every Malayali, making the loss feel intimate, as if a family member was gone.
His wife Vimala and son Vineeth Sreenivasan sat beside the mortal remains, accepting condolences with quiet dignity. Through the afternoon, a stream of film personalities, directors, writers, and political leaders, including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, came to offer homage.
The People's Artist: Voices from the Crowd
The crowd was a testament to Sreenivasan's widespread appeal. Santhosh M M, who travelled from Kottayam, reflected a common sentiment, stating the actor had a Midas touch and that his iconic dialogues from films like 'Sandesam' and 'Vadakkunokkiyantram' are etched in public memory.
Even his staunch political critics were among the mourners. Longtime CPM workers Pushpa Satheesan, Reeja Vidyadharan, and Mary Agnes from Kadamakkudy were among the first to arrive. They acknowledged his sharp criticism of the Left but separated the artist from the politics. "We love him as an artist. We enjoy his political satire," said Satheesan.
Fans like C M Ansar, an automobile parts shop owner, admitted to watching his movies repeatedly on television, admiring both the person and the performer. Taxi driver P S Kabir exemplified the depth of public affection, having skipped a trip to pay his last respects.
A Legacy of Truth and the Common Man
National award-winning director Priyanandanan, who came from Thrissur, highlighted Sreenivasan's rare gift for capturing the pulse of the common man. "He spoke truth to power and because he held on to that truth, no external force could destroy him," he recalled.
Kerala's Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian aptly described Sreenivasan as "a human wonder," noting how his work in multiple roles—actor, writer, director—captured the raw emotions of ordinary people.
As evening fell on Kochi, the crowds at Town Hall began to thin, but the weight of the moment remained. A solemn Mammootty stood as a poignant symbol of a long professional bond. It was Sreenivasan who had handed Mammootty his first salary for their work in K G George's 'Mela'. The megastar knew the invaluable worth of that gesture, just as he valued the memorable roles Sreenivasan had scripted for him, with Ashok Raj in 'Kathaparayumbol' being just one shining example. The final curtain had fallen on an artist who was, in every sense, a part of Kerala's collective family.
