Kerala year ender 2025: Remembering eminent personalities the State lost this year
Kerala: The year 2025 marked a period of profound loss for Kerala, with the passing of several eminent personalities who left an indelible imprint on its cultural, artistic and intellectual life. Celebrated actors, filmmakers, singers and performers who once shaped powerful narratives on screen and stage are no more, but their work continues to resonate with audiences. As Kerala mourns these losses, it also reflects on the enduring legacy they created across Malayalam cinema, literature, politics, music, medicine and public life. Several other influential figures from diverse fields who made lasting contributions to society also passed away during the year. Here is a list of notable personalities who died in Kerala in 2025.
Shaji N Karun (April 28): Renowned filmmaker and cinematographer Shaji N Karun passed away on April 28 at the age of 73 after a prolonged battle with cancer. A towering figure in Malayalam cinema, he brought the industry national and international acclaim through his distinctive visual language. His debut ‘Piravi’ earned a Special Mention for the Golden Camera at the 1989 Cannes Film Festival.
Kalabhavan Navas (August 1): Malayalam actor and mimicry artist Kalabhavan Navas was found dead in a hotel room in Kochi. His sudden demise sent shockwaves across the Malayalam entertainment industry. Colleagues and fans remember him for his vibrant screen presence, sharp comic timing and contributions to cinema, television and stage performances.
Shanavas (August 4): Actor Shanavas, son of legendary Malayalam actor Prem Nazir, passed away after undergoing treatment for kidney-related ailments. His death has been mourned by members of the film fraternity and fans alike. Shanawas was remembered for carrying forward his father’s cinematic legacy with dignity.
Sreenivasan (December 20): Renowned Malayalam actor, screenwriter and filmmaker Sreenivasan passed away in Kochi at the age of 69 after a prolonged illness. Over a career spanning nearly five decades, he appeared in more than 225 films, earning acclaim for his sharp social satire and memorable performances. Widely respected as a writer and director, his award-winning work blended humour with incisive social commentary and remains deeply influential in Malayalam cinema.