THRISSUR: The mortal remains of actor and comedian Mala Aravindan were consigned to flames with full state honours at his house in Mala here on Thursday. The funeral pyre was lit by Mala’s son Muthu alias Kishore in the presence of a large number of his admirers. Mala died on Wednesday at a hospital in Coimbatore following a cardiac arrest. His body was brought to his residence on Wednesday evening.
Large number of people from all walks of life turned up to bid adieu to the late actor who delighted the audience with his histrionics, body language and innate sense of humour. At the time of cremation, those present included Mammootty, Jayaram, Innocent, Captain Raju, Idavela Babu, director Siddique and workers of political parties and prominent citizens.
Tourism Minister A P Anilkumar paid homage to the departed soul representing the state government. Political leaders were among those who laid wreaths in homage for the deceased. Mammootty, who formed part of the funeral cortege, said later that the Malayalam film industry never tapped his histrionic skills cent per cent.
His dialogue presentation skills and facial expression chained him to the comedy arena alone, but there was a talented serious actor in him, he said.
A condolence meeting was also held in his village after the funeral.