Post by : Maya Rahman

The Malayalam film industry mourns the loss of a key figure, Sreenivasan, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 69. He succumbed at a government hospital in Thripunithura, concluding a remarkable 48-year career that fundamentally altered the comedic portrayal of societal norms and the middle-class experience.

Born in 1956 in Kuthuparamba, Kannur, Sreenivasan was the son of a schoolteacher and a homemaker. His journey into acting commenced in 1977 at the Film and Television Institute of India in Chennai, though his film debut came earlier with P.A. Backer’s Manimuzhakkam (1976). Across more than 200 films, he adeptly embodied and reflected the challenges faced by the Malayali middle class.

In addition to acting, he gained recognition as a dubbing artist for stars like Mammootty. However, his greatest impact stemmed from his screenwriting. The seminal screenplay Odaruthammava Aalariyam (1984) established him as a bold writer willing to confront moral inconsistencies. His memorable works include Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Gandhinagar 2nd Street, and Nadodikkattu, intertwining humor with incisive social critiques.

His notable film, Sandesham, is a political satire addressing ideological schisms within families, encapsulating the political atmosphere of Kerala. Iconic lines like "Don't speak a word about Poland" remain part of popular culture. Sreenivasan collaborated with Mohanlal and director Sathyan Anthikad to craft films tackling themes such as unemployment and the socio-political fabric, all through a lens of realism and witty humor.

As a director, he was awarded the Kerala State Film Award for Vadakkunokkiyantram and the National Film Award for Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala. Later roles in movies like Aanaval Mothiram and Traffic showcased his skill in portraying complex ethical dilemmas.

Identifying as a Communist, Sreenivasan was also an advocate for organic farming and an outspoken critic of political violence. His legacy continues through his sons, Vineeth and Dhyan Sreenivasan, both of whom are making strides in cinema. Sreenivasan’s invaluable contribution reshaped perceptions in Malayalam cinema about politics and everyday life, seamlessly merging humor with sharp observation. His distinct style and grin will surely be missed by audiences everywhere.

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