Sreevidya also known as Srividya, was an Indian film actress who appeared in films in the Tamil and Malayalam film industries for 40 years. In the latter part of her career, she concentrated on Malayalam films. Her portrayals as a mother in many films were highly acclaimed. In addition to acting, she occasionally worked as a playback singer as well. Srividya's personal life was full of tragedies. In 2006, she died of Spine cancer, aged 53.

Biography

Srividya acted in Apoorva Raagangal opposite Kamal Haasan which virtually changed her life. In the film she acted as lover of Kamal Haasan. She fell in love with Kamal Haasan during the making of the film. They had the support of their families, but they broke up. Their relationship was the inspiration of a Malayalam film Thirakkatha as well, released in 2008.

Later she fell in love with George Thomas, an assistant director in her Malayalam film Teekkanal. She married him on 9 January 1976 despite opposition from her family. As George wished, she was baptised before the marriage. She wanted to stay as a housewife, but had to return to acting, when George forced her to, citing financial issues. She soon realised that she made a wrong decision in marrying him. Her life became miserable and the marriage ended in divorce in 1980. It was followed by a prolonged legal battle to settle financial issues between the two. The case went up to the Supreme Court of India, where she won the final decision. After the divorce, she left Chennai and settled in Thiruvananthapuram.