Thiruvananthapuram: The mother of legendary actor Mohanlal, Santhakumari Amma, was given a tearful farewell by family, friends and fans alike. Her final rites were performed at the Hillview premises in Poojappura-Mudavanmukal, where her husband and eldest son joined her in eternal rest. Mohanlal personally oversaw the funeral ceremonies.

Santhakumari Amma, who passed away on Tuesday afternoon, was brought from Elamakkara home in Kochi, to the state capital on Wednesday morning. Mohanlal, along with his wife Suchitra and children Pranav and Vismaya, received her body at the residence. From the morning, relatives and friends gathered to pay their respects and offer condolences, while Mohanlal quietly guided the proceedings. During the daytime rites, he greeted all attendees with folded hands, offering a personal touch of gratitude and humility. The final rituals took place at 3 pm, accompanied by the chanting of ‘Harerama’ and her body was taken to the cremation ground through the back path of the house. Mohanlal remained by the side of the body throughout, showing deep composure and restraint despite evident grief.
 

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Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan comforting Mohanlal as directors Priyadarshan and B Unnikrishnan look on; Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar joining Mohanlal to pay respects to his mother | Photo: Mathrubhumi

 

The funeral was held under tight security, attended by dignitaries including Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Minister Suresh Gopi with his wife Radhika, ministers Mohammad Riyas, Veena George, Abdul Rahiman, and prominent figures from the film industry such as director Priyadarshan, producer G Suresh Kumar and actors Jagadeesh and Antony Perumbavoor.
 

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AICC general secretary and MP K C Venugopal paying respects; Union Minister Suresh Gopi and his wife Radhika offering their condolences | Photo: Mathrubhumi

Mohanlal in silent mourning

Mohanlal has always carried fond memories of the Mudavanmukal house, where he grew up with his mother, father and elder brother. Returning to the home without his mother brought visible sorrow, yet he quietly took part in the funeral rites with grace. From early morning, a steady stream of visitors came to pay their respects at the family home. VIPs, cultural figures and fans of the actor waited patiently to offer condolences and honour the departed.

The day saw heavy traffic around Poojappura-Mudavanmukal as hundreds gathered. Ministers, MPs, cultural icons and numerous colleagues from the film fraternity attended to offer their final respects, making it a heartfelt farewell for the beloved mother of a national icon.