Meena Ganesh, Iconic Malayalam Star, Dies

Meena Ganesh, a legendary Malayalam cinema and serial actor, passed away on December 19, 2024, at the age of 81. She was a revered figure in Malayalam theatre and cinema, known for her versatile performances in over 100 films and numerous stage productions. Despite her absence from acting in recent years due to health issues, Meena’s legacy in the Malayalam entertainment industry continues to be celebrated.

Key Points

Early Life and Career

• Born in 1942 in Kallekulangara, Palakkad, Kerala, to Tamil actor K.P. Keshavan.
• Began her acting career in theatre at the age of 19, performing with several renowned theatre groups such as SL Puram Surya Soma, KPAC, and Kayamkulam Kerala Theatres.
• Won numerous awards for her theatre performances.

Film Career

• Made her film debut in 1976 with P.A. Backer’s Manimuzhakkam.
• Acted in over 100 films, with notable ones including Vasanthiyum Lakshmiyum Pinne Njanum, Karumadikkuttan, Punaradhivasam, Meesha Madhavan, and Nandanam.

Personal Life

• Married playwright and actor A.N. Ganesh in 1971.
• Together, they established the drama troupe Pournami Kalamandir in Shoranur.
• Acted in many plays written by her husband, including Panchajanyam, Simhasanam, Swarnamayooram, and more.

Theatre Legacy

• Acted in numerous plays, often performing even during pregnancy.
• One of the most iconic plays, Udaranimiyaam, won the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1992.

Health and Retirement

• Took a break from acting after suffering a stroke six years ago.
• Passed away in a private hospital in Shoranur, Kerala, due to age-related health issues.