'One of his kind': Priyadarshan pays heartfelt tribute to Sreenivasan
What's the story
Filmmaker Priyadarshan recently paid tribute to his long-time collaborator, Malayalam actor-screenwriter-director-producer Sreenivasan, who passed away at 69. In an interview, he spoke about their 21-film collaboration and Sreenivasan's unique ability to blend humor with socio-political commentary. "He had a deadly sense of humor...nobody turned against him for his critical satire because of his sense of humor," said Priyadarshan.
Political satire
Priyadarshan highlighted Sreenivasan's unique approach to political satire
Priyadarshan emphasized Sreenivasan's talent for making serious socio-political critiques palatable with humor. He told Bollywood Hungama, "The best part is, even a rickshaw driver understood Sreenivasan's humor." "Political satire will offend someone or the other. Of course, he got threats and all, but at the same time, people smiled at it." "He was only one of his kind. There is nobody else. Nobody like him has ever happened in the history of Malayalam cinema and literature."
Personal bond
Priyadarshan and Sreenivasan's friendship and professional relationship
Priyadarshan revealed that he and Sreenivasan shared a bond more like friends than filmmakers. He recalled how Sreenivasan suggested using humor to address social issues when Priyadarshan started doing slapstick comedy. "He was known as the Satire King of Kerala. His political humor was akin to RK Laxman," said Priyadarshan.
Initial encounter
Priyadarshan recalled their 1st meeting and Sreenivasan's struggles
Priyadarshan first met Sreenivasan through actor Mammootty. "Mammootty introduced him to me, but he was struggling at that time. So, he says that it is I who made him a writer," he said. "So whenever he got an award, he said it belonged to Priyan." He also shared how Sreenivasan reluctantly started writing when Priyadarshan offered him a role if he did so.
Writing prowess
Priyadarshan praised Sreenivasan's writing skills and unique perspective
Priyadarshan said, "He was a much better writer than an actor, even though he acted in more films than he wrote." He also shared a humorous anecdote from their recent conversation. "Recently, about 10 days back, he fell down. I told him, Srini, we are both becoming old. We have to be careful," Priyadarshan recalled. "He says, I was careful, but what about this floor? At least the floor should understand an old man is walking."