Veteran Malayalam actor Meena Ganesh, who made significant contributions to cinema, television, and theatre, passed away early this morning, December 19, 2024, at a private hospital in Kerala's Shoranur. She was 81.
Meena Ganesh had been undergoing treatment at the hospital for the past five days following a stroke, Manorama Online said in a report.
The senior Mollywood artist began her artistic journey at the age of 19, debuting in theatre before making her mark in Malayalam cinema. Her first film was Manimuzhakkam (1976), directed by P.A. Backer. Over the decades, she has appeared in more than 100 films, majorly in supporting roles, and is best known for her roles in acclaimed films such as Vasanthiyum Lakshmiyum Pinne Njaanum (1999), Karumadikkuttan (2001), and Nandanam (2002).
As reported by Mathrubhumi, she had often shared how her father's passion for acting influenced her career path. Her father, K.P. Keshavan Nair, had acted alongside prominent figures like M.G. Ramachandran in several films and had strong ties with theatre artists, which ultimately led her into the world of theatre.
Her theatrical career was equally known for, marked by associations with renowned drama societies such as KPAC, SL Puram, Surya Soma, Kayamkulam Kerala Theatres, Thrissur Chinmayi, Changanassery Geeta, Angamaly Pournami, Kottayam National, etc. Her performances won her several accolades and recognitions in the cultural circles of Kerala.
She was married to actor A.N. Ganesh, who was a prominent figure in film and theatre. The couple has two children—director Manoj Ganesh and Sangeetha.
Filmfare also took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, “As per reports, Malayalam actress #MeenaGanesh has passed away at the age of 81. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her loved ones during this difficult time.”
The funeral is set to take place in Shoranur this evening.