Malayalam actor Maathu, best known for her role opposite Mammootty in the acclaimed 1991 film Amaram, has opened up about the emotional and personal changes that shaped her journey away from cinema. In a recent interview, she spoke about how being replaced in a major film project early in her career pushed her into a difficult phase — ultimately leading to her changing her name, converting to Christianity, and eventually moving to the United States, where she now works as an accountant.
Breakthrough and recognition
Maathu rose to prominence with Amaram, directed by Bharathan and written by Lohithadas. The film, which portrayed the bond between a fisherman father (Mammootty) and his daughter, remains one of Malayalam cinema’s widely remembered dramas. Maathu’s portrayal of Radha, whose love and aspirations clash with her father’s expectations, earned her critical praise and a lasting identity in the industry.
Following Amaram, she acted in multiple Malayalam and Tamil films including Sandesham, Sadayam, Ekalavyan and Kannada films as well. Despite steady work, she said that she carried a sense of disappointment that she struggled to express publicly at the time.
Being replaced in a major film changed everything
Before her Amaram breakthrough, Maathu had initially been selected for a prestigious project — but the role was later given to actor Monisha.
“I had prepared for it and was emotionally invested,” she recalled.
“That moment broke something inside me.”
The sudden replacement left her disheartened and in what she described as a “deep emotional low.” It was during this phase that she visited Sahayamatha Church in Kerala with her mother.
Conversion and name change
Maathu shared that the visit had such a profound emotional impact that she decided to convert to Christianity.
“I broke down completely. It felt like I was being held,” she said.
She adopted a new name — Meena — and said that the conversion marked a turning point in how she viewed her life and work.
“It wasn’t a decision of impulse. It came from pain, healing and clarity,” she said.
Leaving the film industry
Despite gaining recognition, Maathu gradually withdrew from films. She married, started life in the United States and later separated before remarrying. Today, she lives in Long Island with her husband and children.
She works as an accountant, preferring a quiet life away from the attention that once followed her.
“I am happy now. I value peace. Cinema gave me a lot, but I don’t miss the limelight,” she said.
Looking back with acceptance
Maathu maintains that she does not regret leaving the industry.
“I cherish Amaram and the roles that shaped me. But life had other plans,” she said, adding that her faith continues to guide her choices.
She also acknowledged that fans often wonder where she disappeared.
“People think actors vanish suddenly. But sometimes, we just choose a different life,” she said with a smile.