Kerala says goodbye to Sreenivasan, forever in our stories and hearts

Kochi: The funeral rites of Malayalam cinema’s beloved actor Sreenivasan took place on Sunday at the courtyard of his residence in Kandanad, Udayamperoor.

Kerala police honoured him with a bugle salute in recognition of his contributions to the arts, as his mortal remains were prepared for cremation.

His son, actor Vineeth Sreenivasan, performed the last rites. Sreenivasan’s long-time collaborator, director Sathyan Anthikad, bade farewell by placing a pen and handwritten note on the grave, which stated, “Forever extending good wishes to all”.

Fans, actors and politicians gathered in large numbers to pay their last respects to the legendary actor, whose wit and humour brought everyday issues to life on screen. The rites were briefly delayed due to the surging crowd.

Admirers flooded the roads leading to his home, reflecting the profound impact he had on audiences across Kerala.

Among those who arrived to offer their condolences were eminent film personalities, including directors Sathyan Anthikad, Fazil, Blessy, and Rosshan Andrrews, actors Suriya, Vijayaraghavan, Lal, Jagdish, Renji Panicker, Mukesh, Prithviraj, Vineeth, Nivin Pauly, and Dileep.

Political leaders were also present, including Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan, CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam, and CPM State Secretary MV Govindan.

Sreenivasan passed away early Saturday at 8:25 am at Tripunithura Taluk Hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment for multiple ailments. His body was placed at Ernakulam Town Hall for public viewing before being brought to his residence in Udayamperoor.

A native of Padiyam in Kannur, Sreenivasan entered Malayalam cinema with PA Backer’s ‘Manimuzhakkam’ (1976) and made his debut as a scriptwriter in 1984 with Priyadarshan’s ‘Odaruthammava Aalariyam’.

He is survived by his wife Vimala, sons Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan, and daughters-in-law Divya and Arpita.