What really caused Sreenivasan’s death? Inside the final days of the Malayalam cinema legend
Malayalam legend Sreenivasan passes away at 69. Image Source: NDTV
Renowned Malayalam actor, screenwriter and filmmaker Sreenivasan, whose sharp satire and deeply human characters reshaped Indian cinema, passed away in Kochi on December 20, 2025. He was 69. The industry veteran had been undergoing treatment for cardiac and related health complications, according to official confirmations.
His death marks the end of an era in Malayalam cinema, one defined by fearless storytelling, social critique, and unforgettable humour that resonated across generations.
Cause of Death: What Happened to Sreenivasan?
Sreenivasan had been ailing for a considerable period due to heart-related issues and other age-related ailments. He breathed his last in Kochi, where he had been receiving medical care. While no emergency incident was reported, sources close to the family confirmed that his health had been fragile in recent years, leading to a gradual decline.
The cause of death has been attributed to complications arising from cardiac illness, a condition he had been managing quietly while staying largely away from public appearances.
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A Towering Presence in Malayalam Cinema
With a career spanning nearly five decades, Sreenivasan was much more than an actor. He was a scriptwriter, scenarist, director and cultural commentator, credited with redefining how the Indian middle class was portrayed on screen.
He acted in over 220 films, beginning with Manimuzhakkam in 1976, and went on to become one of Malayalam cinema’s most trusted creative minds. His scripts avoided exaggerated heroism, instead focusing on ordinary people, social contradictions, political hypocrisy and emotional realism.
Why Sreenivasan’s Writing Changed Cinema Forever
While Sreenivasan was a compelling performer, many consider his screenwriting genius to be his greatest contribution. Films like Sandesham remain politically and socially relevant decades later, often resurfacing in public discourse through memes, debates and cultural references.
Unlike slapstick comedy, his humour was layered with satire, provoking audiences to laugh and think simultaneously. Industry veterans often placed him alongside legends such as M.T. Vasudevan Nair and P. Padmarajan for his originality and depth.
Directed Only Two Films, And Made History
In a career defined by restraint and self-awareness, Sreenivasan directed just two films, nearly a decade apart. Both went on to win a total of six Kerala State Film Awards, proving that quality, not quantity, defined his philosophy.
He once famously said, “The 500 films I didn’t do are my biggest contribution to Malayalam cinema.” The remark captured his trademark wit, and his artistic integrity.
Tributes Pour In From Across India
Condolences flooded in from political leaders, filmmakers and actors across India.
- Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called his death an “irreparable loss,” praising his ability to depict the common man through satire.
- Mohanlal said Malayalis saw their own lives and emotions through Sreenivasan’s characters.
- Kamal Haasan described him as an artist who entertained, enlightened and provoked.
- Shashi Tharoor said Malayalam cinema would never be the same without his genius.
Family and Final Rites
Sreenivasan is survived by his wife Vimala Sreenivasan, and sons Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan, both well-known actors and filmmakers. His mortal remains were kept at his residence in Kandanad near Kochi, before being moved to Ernakulam Town Hall for the public to pay their respects.
A Legacy That Will Outlive Generations
From sharp political satire to deeply personal storytelling, Sreenivasan’s work remains timeless. Even in death, his films continue to shape conversations, influence filmmakers, and reflect society back to itself, honestly and unapologetically.
Malayalam cinema hasn’t just lost a legend. It has lost its most honest mirror.
FAQ
What was the cause of Sreenivasan’s death?
Sreenivasan died due to complications arising from cardiac and other health ailments, after being unwell for a prolonged period.
How old was Sreenivasan when he died?
He was 69 years old at the time of his death.
Where did Sreenivasan die?
He passed away in Kochi, Kerala, while undergoing medical care.
Was Sreenivasan suffering from illness before his death?
Yes. He had been battling heart-related issues and other ailments for some time.
Who are Sreenivasan’s family members?
He is survived by his wife Vimala, and sons Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan.
Why is Sreenivasan considered a legend in Malayalam cinema?
He transformed Malayalam cinema through satirical storytelling, realistic characters and socially relevant scripts, influencing generations of filmmakers.
What are Sreenivasan’s most iconic contributions?
His work as a screenwriter, especially films like Sandesham, and his limited yet award-winning direction, remain his most enduring contributions.