‘One of the reasons I chose this path...’ Kalyani Priyadarshan reflects on Sreenivasan’s influence

Kochi: Actress Kalyani Priyadarshan has paid a heartfelt tribute to late actor, screenwriter and filmmaker Sreenivasan, describing his death as a major loss to both her family and Malayalam cinema.

She shared her remembrance on Instagram alongside a photograph of her father, filmmaker Priyadarshan, standing with Sreenivasan. In her post, Kalyani reflected on how the friendships she witnessed during her childhood played an important role in shaping her decision to pursue a career in cinema.

Recalling the bond between her father and Sreenivasan, Kalyani wrote, “I've always said that there are a few friendships I watched growing up that made me want to get into cinema and work the way my dad did. And one of them was undoubtedly theirs.”

She went on to speak about the lasting influence of Sreenivasan’s work on her life and career.

“I grew up loving his work. It was always around me, and without even realising it then, it became one of the reasons I chose this path,” she said.

 “This feels like a loss for cinema... it feels like a loss for my family. Rest in peace dear legend... You will always be cherished,” Kalyani added.

Sreenivasan passed away on Saturday morning at around 8.30 am. He had been unwell for a long time and was resting at his home in Udayamperoor. While being taken to a private hospital for dialysis, he reportedly experienced breathing difficulties and was rushed to the Tripunithura General Hospital, where his death was confirmed.

What were his final works in cinema?

The veteran filmmaker’s last acting appearance was in ‘Nancy Rani’, which was released in June. His final screenplay was for ‘Njan Prakashan’, directed by Sathyan Anthikad and starring Fahadh Faasil.

Sreenivasan’s passing has led to an outpouring of grief across the Malayalam film industry, with colleagues, actors and filmmakers remembering him as a towering creative force whose work shaped generations of cinema lovers.