Date:31/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/31/stories/2008123154920900.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Malathamma dead

Special Correspondent

BANGALORE: Theatre and film artiste G.V. Malathamma (84) died of a heart attack here on Tuesday. She complained of chest pain around 11.30 in the morning and died on the way to hospital.

Born to the doyen of Kannada theatre Gubbi Veeranna and his wife Sundaramma in 1924, Malathamma grew up believing that she would dedicate her life to theatre but decided to marry because her father had given his word to someone.

However, there came a dramatic moment when Malathamma was forced to make a choice between her husband and her father, and she chose to return to theatre.

Her passion for theatre and love for her daughters had become a guiding force in her life despite the occasional odds. She acted in over 600 plays and a score of Kannada films. She is survived by two daughters, including artiste B. Jaisri.

The final rites will be held at 9.30 a.m. on Wednesday, according to her family.