From Silk Smitha and National Award-winner Shoba to Bollywood stars like Sushant Singh Rajput and Jiah Khan, Indian cinema has seen several tragic losses actors who allegedly died by suicide. The price of fame often comes at the cost of mental health, and sometimes, even lives. While speculations and conspiracy theories surround many of these cases, the real reasons often remain unknown. One such heartbreaking story is that of Vijayasree, known as the “Marilyn Monroe of Malayalam cinema,” who ended her life at just 21, right when her career was at its peak.
In a short span of five years, Vijayasree acted in over 60 films, capturing audiences with her stunning beauty and screen presence. However, despite her potential, she was often typecast as a sex symbol, and her acting talent was rarely given the spotlight it deserved. Even five decades later, the mystery behind her untimely death remains unresolved, with no clear answers about what led her to take such a step.
Born on January 8, 1953, in Manacaud, Thiruvananthapuram, to Vasu Pillai and Vijayamma, Vijayasree began her acting journey at just 13 with the Tamil film Chitthi (1966), alongside Padmini and Gemini Ganesan. Offers from Telugu and Kannada films followed, and soon she was noticed by Malayalam cinema. Her first appearance was a small role in Poojapushpam (1969), starring Prem Nazir and Sheela. Her big break came in Rakthapushpam (1970), opposite superstar Prem Nazir and directed by Sasikumar. Their on-screen chemistry was a hit, and Vijayasree quickly rose to stardom, becoming one of the most sought-after actresses of her time.
