The Malayalam film industry and fans across India are in mourning following the passing of Santhakumari Amma, the beloved mother of superstar Mohanlal. She left this world on Tuesday, December 30, casting a shadow of grief over her family, close friends, and countless admirers of the actor.
A Nostalgic Flashback to 'Thoovanathumbikal' Set
In the wake of this sad news, a poignant and rare memory from the sets of the classic 1987 film 'Thoovanathumbikal' has resurfaced, shared by Ananthapadmanabhan, son of the legendary filmmaker Padmarajan. He posted old photographs on Facebook that captured a unique moment.
The pictures show Santhakumari Amma visiting the film's set at Kerala Varma College in Thrissur. Ananthapadmanabhan revealed she had come there while traveling in connection with a marriage proposal for her son, Mohanlal. He wrote about first meeting Amma in 1979 at the house of a relative in Jagathy, highlighting a bond that existed even before cinema, a friendship that spanned half a century.
Personal Memories and a Mother's Presence
Sharing a deeply personal anecdote from May 2024, Ananthapadmanabhan described meeting Shanta Aunty, who held Amma's hand tightly. "When it was time to leave, she became sad. She cried. For those who never leave the heart, goodbyes are not really needed," he wrote, capturing the enduring connection.
In a detailed note from 2023, he painted a vivid picture of that day on set. Amma and Shanta aunty sat in the college corridor, discussing stories from Poojappura and specifically 'Lalu's marriage proposals'. He recalled that Amma and her brother had stopped midway during a journey north for one such proposal.
"During breaks between shots, Lalettan (Mohanlal) would come by, crack a joke, and leave. His uncle Radhakrishnan was also with him," he recounted. This was during the filming of the 'Moolakkuruvinte Askitha' scene. Ananthapadmanabhan poignantly noted that the happiness of Amma's presence could be felt in that performance. Soon after the filming of 'Thoovanathumbikal', Mohanlal's marriage was finalized.
An Industry Stands in Solidarity
Leaders from the Indian film fraternity swiftly extended their condolences to the grieving actor. Kamal Haasan posted on social media, "Brother @MohanLal only you can console yourself. Friends will stand by you as always... Take care we all love you."
Telugu superstar Chiranjeevi expressed, "My dear friend @Mohanlal, My heart goes out to you on the loss of your beloved Amma," emphasizing that a mother's love remains a eternal source of strength.
In a gesture of silent support, fellow Malayalam icon Mammootty personally visited Mohanlal's home to pay his last respects and offer comfort to the family during this difficult time.
