Santhakumari Amma, the adored mother of popular Malayalam actor Mohanlal, passed away on December 30, aged 90, at her son’s home in Elamakkara, Kochi. Typically unassuming, down-to-earth, and a person of character, she lived a life away from the eyes of the public yet contributed significantly to the upbringing of an illustrious movie star. The wife of Viswanathan Nair, a retired government servant, she raised her children with utmost love and devotion. Tragedy struck her previously with the loss of her elder son Pyarilal in 2000 and her husband’s death years prior; nevertheless, she was a strong source of support for the remaining family members. Her love, meekness, and strong support system were a solid rock for Mohanlal his whole life and in his film career.
Santhakumari the guiding force behind Mohanlal
Throughout Mohanlal’s career till he rose to the level of pan-Indian superstar, Santhakumari Amma has been the guiding light and strength in the actor’s life. Mohanlal always credits Santhakumari Amma for giving him the values of discipline, hard work, and kindness, which he made his life motto. Mohanlal always made a point to spend time with his mom amid his busy schedule and always ensured that he sought his mother’s guidance, be it visiting his parental home, however brief it may be, or taking her blessings before every important life event. Mohanlal’s friends and colleagues state that the actor is very humble and grounded, qualities attributed to his upbringing under his mother’s guidance.
A pillar of support
The life experience of Mohanlal is also based on his mother’s deeds. He said the luckiest day of his life was the day he received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. When asked why, he said he had the chance to share with his mother the joy of receiving the award. He recognizes the fact that it was his mother who inspired him, made him stronger, and guided him in facing the trials in the industry of show business whenever he had to deal with pressures and the doubt. Furthermore, family and friends have said that she was always there to share the good times or console the actor.
Remembering a mother whose love lives on
Today, as the family and friends pay a last tribute to Santhakumari Amma, it is her son whom she has touched with her love lessons and values. The values and lessons in life that Santhakumari Amma taught her son, Mohanlal, continue to serve him on personal and professional fronts.
