Santhakumari, Mother of Malayalam Star Mohanlal, Passes Away at 90 in Kochi

Post by : Mina Rahman

 Santhakumari, the cherished matriarch of renowned Malayalam actor Mohanlal, peacefully departed this world on Tuesday at her home in Elamakkara, Kochi, at the age of 90. Her passing signifies the close of an extraordinary journey filled with love, strength, and resilience.

Hailing from Elanthoor in the Pathanamthitta district, Santhakumari spent a majority of her life in Thiruvananthapuram, having relocated there years ago due to her husband Viswanathan Nair’s esteemed role as law secretary for the Kerala government. Their move was intricately linked to his professional duties.

As a steadfast support system for her family, Santhakumari played an integral role during various life transitions. Following a stroke in recent years, she moved to Kochi to live with Mohanlal and his family, ensuring she received the care she needed. Surrounded by family, she marked her 90th birthday in August 2025, celebrating a life well-lived.

Mohanlal often expressed his deep appreciation for the bond shared with his mother, considering her an unwavering source of guidance and motivation. Her nurturing spirit and persistence shone brightly during hard times, particularly when she stood by her husband, providing unwavering support during his memory loss.

Mohanlal attributes his values of compassion and the strength of relationships to his mother's influence, having witnessed her dedication to caring for his father with grace and patience.

Survived by her celebrated son, Mohanlal remains a beloved icon in Indian cinema, with memories of his late brother Pyarelal, who passed in 2000, also bringing comfort to the family.

Her passing follows the release of Mohanlal's recent film Vrusshabha on December 25, 2025. As family and fans mourn the loss of this remarkable woman, they also honor her enduring legacy within Malayalam cinema, where she significantly impacted the life of one of its greatest stars.

The announcement of her demise has drawn an outpouring of condolences from fans and the film industry alike, recognizing her not just as the mother of a star but as a remarkable individual in her own right. As Mohanlal and his family navigate their grief, they celebrate the lasting love and values she imparted.