Veteran Telugu actress Pavala Shyamala died at 75 following years of serious illness, financial hardship and homelessness.
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Add BollywoodShaadis on GooglePavala Shyamala was one of the most familiar faces of Telugu cinema, whose comedic presence in memorable character roles has largely been celebrated for adding humour to films. The veteran actress, who worked in more than 250 films, died at the age of 75 while undergoing treatment at Hyderabad's Osmania Hospital.
Her death comes weeks after reports that Shyamala had been denied treatment at a private hospital and left stranded on the streets. The actress had many health problems and even tried to kill herself in 2025.
Pavala Shyamala is said to have died in the early hours of July 28, 2026, after suffering a massive cardiac arrest while being treated at Hyderabad’s Osmania General Hospital. Her spokesperson said Shyamala had been facing severe health complications for some time. A spokesperson’s statement said:
"She was unwell for a long time and died while undergoing treatment at Osmania Hospital in Hyderabad. Doctors at Osmania Hospital officially announced that she died after suffering a massive heart attack at 1:52 AM (on Tuesday, July 28th). Her mortal remains have currently been placed in the hospital's mortuary."
The actress had been battling multiple serious illnesses for quite some time. In the months leading up to her death, Shyamala had been struggling with several age-related medical conditions. Reports said she was living with hypertension, Parkinson's disease, and heart-related complications, all of which required ongoing treatment. But as the veteran actress continued to battle with rising medical costs, it became increasingly difficult for her to receive adequate health care.
In May 2026, Shyamala’s condition was in the news after reports surfaced that she was denied treatment at a private hospital for not being able to pay for the cost of treatment. She was put in a taxi and dropped off at a road junction late at night, it is reported.
Concerned locals alerted the police after finding the veteran actress in distress, and she was later moved to the RK Foundation for temporary care. Producer and Film Development Corporation chairman Dil Raju subsequently stepped in to arrange medical treatment after learning about her condition.
The incident triggered widespread outrage and renewed calls for better welfare measures for senior artists who often struggle financially after decades in the industry.
Her later years were not only marred by failing health, but also financial hardship, which took its toll on the actress emotionally. Shyamala and her daughter, who is also thought to be suffering from health problems, were rescued by police in December 2025 amid fears they might take their own lives when they were told to leave the facility where they were living. The mother and daughter were later shifted to a charitable home that provided them with shelter and basic care.
Years before this incident, filmmakers Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK had publicly appealed for financial assistance on her behalf after learning of her difficult circumstances. Several Telugu cinema stars, including Chiranjeevi, Pawan Kalyan, Sai Dharam Tej and Allu Arjun, also extended financial support over the years.
Born Nethi Shyamala in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh, the actress started in theatre and radio before debuting in films with Babai Abbai (1985). She went on to build a career spanning nearly four decades and became a familiar face in Telugu cinema with films like Swarnakamalam, Khadgam, Andhrawala, Varsham, Athadu, Golimaar, Bendu Apparao R.M.P. and Mathu Vadalara.
Known for her expressive performances and comic timing, Shyamala shared screen space with notable South Indian movie stars, including Chiranjeevi, Prabhas, Jr NTR and Allu Arjun. Many clips of her comedy scenes continue to find new audiences through social media and memes.
Rest in Peace, Pavala.
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