‘Thank you for the laughs and thoughts’: Malayalam cinema mourns Sreenivasan

The Malayalam film industry is mourning the loss of Sreenivasan, whose genius as a writer and actor made him one of the most loved figures in cinema.

Even when sharing the screen with superstars like Mammootty and Mohanlal, Sreenivasan had a presence that could not be ignored. His characters- funny, flawed, and deeply relatable, captured the imagination of audiences, making him an eye-catcher in every scene.

Tributes have poured in from across the film industry. Actor-director Prithviraj wrote, “Adieu to one of the greatest ever writer\director\actor! Thank you for the laughs and the thoughts! Rest in peace legend!”

Actor Antony Varghese, sharing a post on Instagram, wrote, “ We grew up watching his films, reciting those conversations, and seeing ourselves in the characters he created. He taught us to laugh at our own shortcomings and to think deeply about the world around us. Whether in the role of an ordinary person or a sharp critic, his talent as a writer and actor is irreplaceable. The laughter you gave us will always be here.”

Politician John Brittas praised the veteran, writing, “Heartfelt condolences..legendary Sreenivasan – the unparalleled actor, screenwriter, director, and master of sharp satire who shaped Malayalam cinema with timeless movies..His wit and genius will always remain to inspire us.”

Singer KS Chitra also expressed her grief, saying, “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.”

BJP State President Rajeev Chandrasekhar took to X and wrote, "Sreenivasan was a rare creative force who made us smile and laugh while also making us think about the society we live in. From political satire in Sandesham to the struggles of the common man in Varavelpu, his work held up a mirror to society, often exposing the hypocrisies of Kerala’s political and social life. Very few understood the pulse of ordinary Malayalees the way he did.”

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor paid tribute to Sreenivasan, saying Malayalam cinema will never be the same without his genius. Remembering films ranging from the sharp satire of Sandesham to the raw emotional depth of Vadakkunokkiyantram, Tharoor said Sreenivasan taught audiences to laugh at themselves while also encouraging deeper thought.

CPI(M) State Secretary M V Govindan, in a statement, said Sreenivasan will continue to be an eternal inspiration to the world of cinema.

"Even the last time I met him, despite various ailments, it was evident that Sreenivasan was constantly renewing his thoughts. He had a unique ability to bring the problems of ordinary people to the silver screen with a touch of humour," he said.

Govindan said Sreenivasan's childhood in Pattiam, where reading rooms were active, ignited in him a passion for reading and theatre.

"His creative ability to present profound themes in an extremely engaging manner will be remembered as long as cinema exists," he said.