Veteran Malayalam actor TP Madhavan passed away on Wednesday, October 9, at a private hospital in Kollam, Kerala. He was 88 and had been receiving treatment for various health complications.
Madhavan, who had been residing at Gandhi Bhavan in Pathanapuram for the last eight years, was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday following a deterioration in his health. Due to stomach-related issues, he was later placed on a ventilator.
Madhavan was a pivotal figure in Malayalam cinema, having served as the first General Secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA). Throughout his illustrious career, which began at the age of 40, he appeared in over 600 films.
He made his film debut in 1975 with Raagam, a film directed by Madhu, who gave him his first break. Initially portraying villainous characters, Madhavan later transitioned to comedic and character roles, where he truly shined.
Some of his most notable works include Nadodikkattu, Pandippada, Ordinary, Ayal Kadha Ezhuthukayan, Nammal, Narasimham, Oru CBI Diary Kuruppu, Moonam Mura, Achuvettante Veedu, Sandesham, and Aaram Thampuran. He also played key roles in several popular Malayalam TV serials, including Daya, Kabani, Chechiyamma, Moonnumani, Pattu Saree, and Aa Amma.
Madhavan was the recipient of prestigious awards such as the Prem Nazir Award and the Ramu Karyat Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to Malayalam cinema.
Madhavan hailed from an accomplished family, being the nephew of dramatist TN Gopinathan Nair and the grandson of renowned linguist Sahithyapanchanan PK Narayana Pillai. His father, NP Pillai, served as Dean at Kerala University, while Madhavan himself held a postgraduate degree in sociology and initially worked in advertising before venturing into acting.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed deep condolences on Madhavan’s demise, remembering him as a talented actor who brought a range of characters to life on screen. Even in his later years at Gandhi Bhavan, Madhavan continued to act in television serials, a testament to his passion for the craft.
The actor’s last rites will take place on Thursday at Santhi Kavadam.