Veteran Malayalam actor, screenwriter, and director Sreenivasan passed away at 69, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in cinema and a family of talented filmmakers who carry forward his vision.
Who was Sreenivasan? A life in cinema
Sreenivasan, born on 6 April 1956 in Patyam near Thalassery, Kerala, was a towering figure in Malayalam cinema. Over nearly five decades, he acted in over 225 films, earned acclaim as a screenwriter, and directed award-winning films that blended social satire with humour. His work often explored societal issues through relatable comedy, leaving an enduring impact on audiences. Among his notable films are Sandesham, Nadodikkattu, Vadakkunokkiyanthram, Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala, and Njan Prakashan, which showcased his versatility both in front of and behind the camera.
Sreenivasan won multiple honours, including Kerala State Film Awards for Best Screenplay, National Film Awards, and Filmfare Awards South. His contributions shaped the tone of contemporary Malayalam cinema, inspiring generations of filmmakers.
Family and dynamic with sons: A creative lineage
Sreenivasan’s legacy extends through his family. He is survived by his wife Vimala and two sons, Vineeth and Dhyan, both prominent figures in Malayalam cinema. Vineeth Sreenivasan, an actor, director, singer, and writer, frequently directed films starring his father and brother, while Dhyan Sreenivasan pursued acting and directing, often collaborating closely with Vineeth and Sreenivasan.
The relationship between father and sons is both professional and deeply personal, blending mentorship, humour, and evolving family dynamics.
The sporting inspiration behind their names
Sreenivasan once revealed that his sons’ names were inspired by his love for sports. Vineeth was named after hockey star Vineet Kumar, while Dhyan drew inspiration from the legendary Dhyan Chand. Reflecting on this, Sreenivasan joked about the “magic” he hoped Dhyan would bring into life, a humour that the family has often shared publicly.
Differing parenting styles and reconciliation
The bond with each son followed different paths. Vineeth, the elder, has been seen as disciplined and reliable, earning admiration from the family for his professionalism and maturity. Dhyan’s relationship with his father was initially more tumultuous, with past disagreements over expectations and choices. Over time, humour and mutual respect helped bridge gaps, with Dhyan’s viral, self-deprecating interviews bringing shared laughter into their lives.
Professional collaboration and mentorship
Despite past tensions, Sreenivasan maintained close creative ties with his sons. Vineeth acted as a mentor to Dhyan, directing his debut in Thira. The father-son duo shared memorable on-screen moments. Vineeth’s directorial guidance and Dhyan’s evolving talent reflect a family whose bonds are strengthened through shared artistic endeavour.
The collaborative landscape of Sreenivasan and his sons is defined by a deep crossover of directorial and acting roles. However, all three have yet to appear on screen together as a cast. The family’s professional synergy often sees one member directing another; for instance, Vineeth Sreenivasan directed Dhyan Sreenivasan in the 2024 film Varshangalkku Shesham and previously in Dhyan’s debut, Thira (2013). Direct acting collaborations frequently occur in pairs, such as Sreenivasan and Vineeth in Makante Achan (2009), or the recent 2025 comedy Aap Kaise Ho?, which starred Sreenivasan alongside Dhyan. Most recently, in December 2025, brothers Vineeth and Dhyan shared significant screen space in the action-comedy Bha Bha Ba. Beyond acting, they are currently expanding their shared legacy by launching a new production house named after their father, dedicated to discovering new talent in the industry.
Perspectives on legacy, identity, and independence
Both sons have acknowledged the advantages and pressures of being part of a celebrated film family. Dhyan admits the “Sreenivasan” name opened doors but also came with expectations to prove himself. Sreenivasan, meanwhile, respected his sons’ autonomy, supporting personal and professional choices, including Dhyan’s marriage, with minimal interference.
A life remembered
Sreenivasan’s contributions to Malayalam cinema and the arts are immortalised through his films and family. His humour, insight, and nuanced storytelling continue to inspire audiences, while Vineeth and Dhyan carry forward his cinematic legacy. The Sreenivasan family represents a rare blend of talent, resilience, and emotional depth in Indian cinema.