Kochi: Santhakumari, 90 — the mother of veteran actor Mohanlal — passed away on Tuesday after a prolonged illness and complications related to age, including paralysis. She had been receiving treatment at Mohanlal’s home in Elamakkara, Kochi.
- Fast Facts:
- Age: 90
- Cause: Long-term age-related ailments; family sources say she had been suffering from paralysis
- Residence: Living with son Mohanlal in Elamakkara, Kochi
- Family: Husband Viswanathan Nair predeceased her; elder son Pyarilal died in 2000
- Mohanlal: Shared a close bond and often cared for her despite a busy schedule
Santhakumari played a central role in Mohanlal’s personal life and, by his own account, influenced his film career. The actor has publicly credited her with being a guiding force; he has said it was his great fortune to be able to share the Dadasaheb Phalke Award with her, and that the first person he visited after learning of the honour was his mother.
The Legacy
Santhakumari’s passing marks a quiet end to the life of a matriarch who supported one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated performers. Mohanlal’s cinematic legacy — including landmark films such as Kireedam, Bharatham and Drishyam — is often connected to the values and support he received at home. Beyond box-office successes, Mohanlal’s career milestones include national recognition and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, moments he repeatedly acknowledged sharing emotionally with his family, especially his mother.
Reactions and Tributes
News of Santhakumari’s death prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans, colleagues and well-wishers across social media. Industry figures and admirers praised the close bond between mother and son, recalling Mohanlal’s frequent references to her influence. Family sources confirmed her prolonged illness; funeral arrangements were not immediately announced.
At a time when the Malayalam film community and millions of fans are remembering their own connections to family and cinema, Mohanlal and his family have asked for privacy as they grieve their loss.
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