Entertainment

Veteran Malayalam actor and filmmaker Sreenivasan passes away at 69

Veteran Malayalam actor, screenwriter and director Sreenivasan died at 69 in Kochi, drawing tributes from across Kerala’s film and political circles.

Published

5 months ago

December 20, 2025

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Veteran Malayalam cinema actor, screenwriter and director Sreenivasan died on Saturday morning at the age of 69, marking the end of an era in the state’s film industry. He breathed his last at a government hospital in Tripunithura near Kochi after developing breathing difficulties while travelling for dialysis.

Sreenivasan had been dealing with prolonged health issues and had undergone heart surgery in 2022. According to hospital authorities, he passed away around 8.30 am. His body was later shifted to his residence, and it will be kept at Ernakulam Town Hall for public homage before the last rites are held at his home.

A life rooted in cinema and social satire

Born on April 6, 1956, at Pattiam in Kannur district, Sreenivasan studied economics before moving to Chennai to pursue film studies. He made his acting debut in 1976 and gradually emerged as one of the most influential creative voices in Malayalam cinema.

Over the decades, he became widely known not just for his performances but also for his sharp and socially aware screenplays. His writing career took off in the 1980s and included several collaborations with leading filmmakers of the time. Many of his works, especially political and social satires, continue to be referenced in public discourse.

Sreenivasan made his directorial debut in 1989 with a film that later earned a Kerala State Film Award and came to be regarded as a classic. He also directed a National Film Award-winning film in the late 1990s, in which he played the lead role. His political satire released in the early 1990s received a state award for best story and remains one of the most discussed films in Malayalam cinema.

Tributes pour in from across Kerala

Several political leaders and film personalities expressed deep grief over his passing. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described the death as an irreparable loss to Malayalam cinema, calling Sreenivasan a versatile talent who excelled in every sphere of filmmaking. He said the filmmaker had a rare ability to portray the life of the common man through humour and satire, even while challenging long-standing conventions.

Opposition leader V D Satheesan termed Sreenivasan a multifaceted genius who brought powerful social messages to the screen with extraordinary simplicity. CPI(M) state secretary M V Govindan said Sreenivasan would remain an eternal inspiration for his ability to present serious themes in an engaging manner rooted in everyday life.

Filmmaker Sathyan Anthikkad, a long-time collaborator and friend, recalled that despite his declining health, Sreenivasan remained mentally sharp and deeply reflective until the end.

Family and personal life

After settling in Kochi, Sreenivasan was also known for practising organic farming near his residence. He is survived by his wife Vimala and their two sons, Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan, both of whom are active in the Malayalam film industry.

With his passing, Malayalam cinema loses a voice that consistently blended humour, realism and social commentary, leaving behind characters and dialogues that continue to resonate with audiences.

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The upcoming Bollywood film Dhurandhar 2 has reportedly secured a significant OTT deal, underlining its strong market buzz ahead of release. According to media reports, the film’s digital streaming rights have been acquired by JioHotstar for approximately Rs 155 crore.

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The teaser of Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming film Ramayana has been released, offering the first glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor in the role of Lord Rama. The film, which is planned as a two-part cinematic project, is scheduled for a Diwali release later this year.

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Music collaboration

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Apart from Ranbir Kapoor, the film also stars Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, Ravi Dubey and Yash in important roles.

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Dhurandhar 2 box office collection day 7 crosses Rs 600 crore in India

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Published

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Ranveer Singh’s film Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge has crossed the Rs 600 crore mark at the India box office within seven days of its release, according to trade estimates. The film has maintained a strong run in both mass centres and urban markets during its first week.

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About the film

Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge is the sequel to the 2025 film Dhurandhar. The sequel features Ranveer Singh along with Arjun Rampal, R. Madhavan and Sanjay Dutt in key roles.