Malayalam cinema is in a state of mourning following the passing of the multifaceted legend Sreenivasan, who breathed his last on Saturday, December 20, 2025. He was 69.
Known for his razor-sharp wit, realistic storytelling, and the ability to capture the “dreams and nightmares” of the middle class, Sreenivasan died at around 8:30 AM after experiencing medical distress while being transported for routine dialysis.
Heartbreaking Scenes: Mohanlal and Mammootty Pay Respects
The depth of the loss was most visible at Sreenivasan’s residence in Kochi, where the “Big Ms” of Malayalam cinema arrived to pay their final respects.
- An Emotional Reunion: A viral video from the residence shows a teary-eyed Mohanlal overcome with emotion. Mammootty, who sat beside him, was seen holding his hand and comforting him in a rare, poignant moment of shared grief.
- The “Dasan-Vijayan” Bond: Mohanlal and Sreenivasan shared one of Indian cinema’s most legendary on-screen chemistries, most notably as the duo Dasan and Vijayan in the Nadodikkattu trilogy.
Mohanlal’s Heartfelt Tribute: “He Captured Our Souls”
Taking to Facebook, Mohanlal penned a moving note in Malayalam, reflecting on their 50-year-long journey:
“Sreeni returned without saying goodbye… We traveled like Dasan and Vijayan—laughing, quarelling, and getting along. Who else can express the dreams and nightmares of the middle class like Sreeni? Malayalis saw their own faces in his characters.”
The Satirist of the Common Man
Sreenivasan’s career spanned nearly five decades and over 225 films. He wasn’t just an actor; he was the “conscience keeper” of the industry.
- Master Screenwriter: He wrote landmark films like Sandesham (a biting political satire), Varavelpu, and Njan Prakashan.
- Award-Winning Director: He directed only two films—Vadakkunokkiyanthram and Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala—both of which won National and State awards and remain cult classics for their psychological depth.
- A Lasting Legacy: He is survived by his wife, Vimala, and his sons, Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan, both of whom are leading figures in the modern Malayalam film industry.
Final Journey
- Public Homage: The body is currently kept at the Ernakulam Town Hall for the public and the film fraternity to pay their last respects.
- Funeral: Sreenivasan’s cremation is scheduled for Sunday, December 21, at 10:00 AM at his residence in Kandanadu, near Tripunithura, with full state honors.