Kochi: Santhakumari, the mother of Malayalam actor Mohanlal, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 90. She died at the family home in Elamakkara, Kochi, after a long period of age related illness.

Family members said she had been under continuous care at home for several years following health complications linked to old age and a previous stroke. In her final days, she remained close to her family, with Mohanlal spending as much time as possible by her side.

Santhakumari was a native of Elanthoor in Pathanamthitta district. Her husband, Viswanathan Nair, who served as a law secretary in the Kerala government, had passed away earlier. Mohanlal’s elder brother Pyarilal also died in 2000.

The actor has often spoken with deep emotion about his bond with his mother. In a recent reflection, he shared that when illness took away her ability to speak clearly, he would sit with her in silence and communicate through eye contact, saying he could still feel her love and reassurance without words.

Earlier this year, after receiving the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Mohanlal’s first visit on returning to Kochi was to his mother. The moment touched many, reflecting how central she remained in his life despite his fame and success.

As news of her passing spread, messages of condolence poured in from across the film industry and from fans across the country. Funeral arrangements are expected to take place on Wednesday, with the family to announce further details.

Santhakumari is remembered as a gentle and steady presence whose quiet strength and unconditional love shaped one of Indian cinema’s most respected actors.