Full Name: Srividya
Date of Birth: July 24, 1953
Place of Birth: Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India
Date of Death: October 19, 2006 (aged 53)
Place of Death: Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Other Names: Sreevidya
Years Active: 1966 – 2006
Family Details:
Parents: Vikatam R. Krishnamurthy (father), M. L. Vasanthakumari (mother)
Spouse: George Thomas (m. 1978; div. 1980)
Early Life:
Srividya was born into a Tamil family on July 24, 1953, in Madras, Tamil Nadu. Her father, Vikatam R. Krishnamurthy, was a Tamil film comedian, while her mother, M. L. Vasanthakumari, was a renowned Carnatic classical singer. She had a brother named Sankararaman.
Career Highlights:
Srividya's acting journey began at a young age when she debuted as a child artist in the 1967 Tamil film "Thiruvarutchelvar." She ventured into Malayalam cinema with "Kumara Sambhavam" in 1969. Her breakthrough came with the role of a college student in the 1971 Tamil film "Nootrukku Nooru." Srividya's career spanned over 40 years, during which she acted in more than 800 films, predominantly in Malayalam and Tamil, with notable roles in Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi cinema as well. Known for her versatility, she portrayed a wide range of characters with subtlety and finesse. Srividya was also a playback singer, lending her voice to several films in Tamil and Malayalam.
Personal Life:
Srividya's personal life was marked by challenges, including failed relationships and legal battles. She married George Thomas in 1978, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1980. Despite the adversities, Srividya continued to pursue her passion for acting, primarily in Malayalam cinema. She battled metastatic breast cancer for three years before passing away on October 19, 2006, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Legacy and Contributions:
Srividya's legacy extends beyond her cinematic achievements to her philanthropic endeavors. In her will, she expressed her desire to establish a music and dance school for underprivileged students. Her enduring impact on Indian cinema and her contributions to the arts continue to inspire aspiring artists and enthusiasts alike.
Honors and Recognition:
Srividya was cremated with full state honors at Brahmana Samooham crematorium in Karamana, Thiruvananthapuram, honoring her immense contribution to Indian cinema. Her life and work serve as a testament to the enduring power of talent, resilience, and passion.