Veteran Malayalam actress Savithri Sreedharan has passed away. The renowned theatre and film star died on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. She was 83 years old. Reportedly, the actress was undergoing treatment for age-related ailments and had been bedridden for some time at her residence in Mankavu, Kozhikode.
Four Decades In Theatre
Savithri began her acting journey in theatre at age 16 with the play Karutha Vella by Valayanad Kala Samithi in 1961. She spent over four decades in Malayalam theatre, performing in thousands of stage productions, and has worked with prominent Kozhikode-based groups like Kalinga, Sangamam, Stage India, and Chiranthana. She won the Kerala State Award for Best Theatre Artist twice, first in 1977 and again in 1993.
Transition To Silver Screen And National Acclaim
After amassing massive fame on stage, Savithri made her big-screen debut in M.T. Vasudevan Nair’s film Kadavu. However, her poignant portrayal of Jameela in the critically acclaimed 2018 film Sudani from Nigeria catapulted her to mainstream cinematic prominence. Her deeply moving performance earned her a Special Mention at the National Film Awards and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Character Actress.
Over her career, the actress appeared in several prominent stage shows and films. Despite gaining fame in films, she remained associated with theatre. Savithri remained active in acting until health problems curtailed her appearances. Through her work, she left a lasting impact on Malayalam theatre and cinema.
Sreedharan’s husband, Sreedharan, passed away before her.
We extend our condolences to those grieving.
