Sreedharan, who had been bedridden for an extended time, succumbed to age‑related ailments, according to family statements released after her death.
She rose to national prominence for her portrayal of Jameela, the mother of the titular character in the critically acclaimed film *Sudani from Nigeria*, a role that earned her the Kerala State Film Award for Best Character Actress and a Special Jury Mention at the 66th National Film Awards.
Beyond *Sudani*, the actress appeared in a string of Malayalam productions, including *Valiyangadi*, *Dakini*, *Mera Naam Shaji*, *Virus*, *Ittymaani: Made in China*, *Pada* and *Paappan*, cementing her reputation as a versatile supporting talent.
Sreedharan’s artistic journey began on stage, debuting with the play *Karutha Velicham* under Valayanad Kala Samithi. After nearly two decades in amateur theatre, she entered the professional arena in 1984 with K.T. Mohammed’s Kalinga Theatre, starring in *Ithu Bhoomiyanu*. Her performance in the play *Aniyara* garnered the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi’s Best Actress award and the state government’s Best Theatre Actress honor, reflecting a theatre career that spanned almost five decades.
The actress’s body will lie in state at Kozhikode Town Hall from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, allowing the public to pay their respects.