Thousands of tearful mourners poured into the city on Monday to catch a last glimpse of veteran actor Thilakan, who died at a city hospital in the early hours of the day.
Thilakan’s body was first taken to the residence of his son Shoby Thilakan at Vettamukku here around 8 am, where relatives and hundreds of local people queued up to pay their last respects to the actor, who refined masculinity on screen with his powerful performances.
After nearly an hour, the 77-year-old actor’s mortal remains were taken to his daughter Sophiya Thilakan’s residence at PRS Court, where also hundreds of people waited under the scorching sun to pay homage.
Half-an-hour later, VJT Hall witnessed one of the largest crowds in its history as a sea of humanity poured out on its premises when the actor’s body was kept there till evening.
People from all walks of life, including representatives of political parties, eminent literary figures, artistes from both theatre and film fields, apart from members of general public, gathered at the venue and waited in line for hours.
Actor as well as Forests and Cinema Minister K B Ganesh Kumar accompanied his senior colleague’s body throughout the day.
By evening, Thilakan’s body was taken to Santhikavadam at Thycaud, where his sons Shammy Thilakan and Shoby Thilakan performed the last rites. And finally, it was time to bid adieu; and the great son of Malayalam cinema was cremated with state honours.