Malayalam cinema lost one of its prominent voices on 20 December with the death of actor, screenwriter and director Sreenivasan, whose five-decade presence shaped the industry. He was 69. Sreenivasan passed
away at a government taluk hospital in Thripunithura. Known for shining light on Malayali middle class lives, its anxieties, Srinivasan was a renowned figure for fans of Malayalam cinema. Several are pouring tributes to the legend. Among those is Mohanlal, Mammootty, Basil Joseph, Kamal Haasan and Nivin Pauly. Read on to know their note of condolence on the passing away of a legend.
Sreenivasan Death: Malayalam Stars Mohanlal, Mammootty, Basil Joseph, Dulquer Salmaan, Prithviraj Sukumaran Offer Condolence
Mohanlal, took to Facebook to share an emotional tribute to his longtime collaborator. Posting a picture of Sreenivasan, Mohanlal wrote, “No one else can express the dreams and broken dreams of the middle class like Sreeni. The characters we created together will last forever, only because of the magic in Sreeni's writing. Dasan and Vijayan became their own people for every Malayali because of Sreeni's blessed writing talent. His works were a reflection of society. A beloved person who captured pain in laughter. On screen and in life, we traveled together forever, laughing, having fun, fighting, and getting along like Dasan and Vijayan.”
Mammootty, along with his wife visited Sreenivasan's house and offered condolence. His son Dulquer Salmaan shared a note which read "A cinematic legend. One of the greatest contributors to Malayalam cinema. Someone I looked up to as family and also had the privilege to share screen space with. Your light will live on forever Sreeni Uncle. Prayers and strength to Vimala Aunty, Vineeth, Dhyan and the whole family".
Nivin Pauly posted "When sir returns leaving laughter and thoughts, Malayalam cinema is losing an irreplaceable man - dearest Sreeni sir who guided so many people like me... "
Basil Joseph said the film maker's work will be cherished among several film buffs "Srini sir, thank you for all the laughter and warmth you gave us. You were a big part of our childhood and our happiest memories. You may be gone, but you’ll always live on through your work. Rest in peace, legend."
Politician Shashi Tharoor posted "Malayalam cinema won't be the same without the genius of #Sreenivasan. From the satirical bites of “Sandesham”to the raw emotion of “Vadakkunokkiyantram”, he taught us to laugh at ourselves while thinking deeper. A true master of the craft who redefined what it means to be a "hero" on screen, & who was an effective director as well. Beyond the actor was a brilliant writer who captured the pulse of Kerala like no other. Sreenivasan’s scripts are time capsules of social commentary, humor, and unparalleled wit. There will never be another observer of life quite like him."
Actor and politician Kamal Haasan said Sreenivasan carried truth with responsibility. "Some artists entertain, some enlighten, some provoke. #Sreenivasan did it all, with a smile that carried truth and a laugh that carried responsibility. My respects to a remarkable mind. Deepest condolences to his family and admirers."
Singer K.S. Chithra took to X and wrote, “I am deeply saddened to hear about Sreenivas sir’s passing. I was fortunate enough to sing for so many of his movies. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”