The world of Malayalam cinema recently mourned the loss of a true icon, R. Subbalakshmi, fondly known as the "grandmother of Malayalam cinema". Her passing on Thursday night in a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram at the age of 87, has left a void in the hearts of Malayalis everywhere.
Born in Thrissur, Kerala in 1936, Subbalakshmi's journey was one of many facets. Before gracing the silver screen, she was a dedicated teacher of dance and music at Jawaharlal Bhavan. Her contributions extended to the realm of radio, where she became the first female composer for All India Radio in South India, a testament to her pioneering spirit.
Subbalakshmi embarked on her acting career later in life, making her film debut in 2002. Her endearing smile and innate ability to evoke laughter quickly established her as a beloved figure. She became synonymous with grandmother roles, portraying characters with warmth and charm that resonated deeply with audiences. Some of her notable roles include appearances in popular films such as "Kalyanaraman" (2002), "Nandanam" (2005), and "Pandippada" (2005).
Beyond Malayalam cinema, Subbalakshmi's talent transcended language barriers. She acted in Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi films, showcasing her versatility and appeal to a wider audience. She also appeared in commercials, becoming a familiar face across the country. She played the grandmother of lead 'Jessie' in Tamil film Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa and its Telugu remake 'Ye Maaya Chesave'. In one of her recent ads for toothpaste, Subbalakshmi played the role of a toothless granny who uses her granddaughter as a 'cutting machine' for the food she craves.
Subbalakshmi's career spanned over 75 films across various genres. Her most recent appearance was in the Tamil blockbuster "Beast" starring Vijay. She was also slated to appear in the Sanskrit film "Madhubhashitham".
Her journey was not without challenges, and she spoke about facing hardships in her personal and professional life. Despite these trials, she remained resilient and continued to inspire many.
The actress is survived by three children, including dancer and actor Thara Kalyan. Her granddaughter, Sowbhagya Venkitesh, shared an emotional message on Instagram, expressing her love and gratitude for her "Ammamma".
Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and other prominent figures from the film industry expressed their condolences to the bereaved family. Her cremation was held at Shanthi Kavadam, Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram.
R. Subbalakshmi's legacy extends beyond her filmography. She was an inspiration, a symbol of resilience, and a reminder that it is never too late to pursue one's passions. Her infectious laughter and memorable performances will continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring that she will always hold a special place in the hearts of Malayalis.
