Veteran Telugu actor Pavala Shyamala dies at 75 due to cardiac arrest weeks after she was found on the streets

Pavala Shyamala. Pic via X

Veteran Telugu actor Pavala Shyamala, known for her memorable supporting and comic roles in several popular Telugu films, passed away in the early hours of July 28. She was 75. The actor suffered a cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment at Hyderabad's Osmania General Hospital, bringing an end to a career that spanned over three decades in the Telugu film industry.

Pavala Shyamala passes away

A spokesperson confirmed the actor's demise, stating that Shyamala had been battling serious health issues for some time. According to the statement, she suffered a massive heart attack at 1:52 am while receiving treatment at Osmania General Hospital in Hyderabad. Her mortal remains have been kept at the hospital mortuary, while details regarding her last rites are yet to be announced.

Shyamala was a familiar face in Telugu cinema, appearing in numerous films alongside leading stars including Chiranjeevi, Prabhas, Jr NTR and Allu Arjun. She earned appreciation for her comic timing in films such as Golimaar, Khadgam, Andhrawala and Varsham. Her appearance in Mathu Vadalara (2019) remains one of her last major credited roles, while several of her scenes continue to circulate widely as memes on social media.

About Shyamala's struggle

Despite her long career, Shyamala spent her final years battling financial difficulties and health complications. She was also caring for her daughter, who reportedly suffers from health issues. Earlier this year, reports emerged that the veteran actor had been denied treatment at a private hospital due to a lack of funds and was later found stranded on a roadside after being dropped off by a taxi. Following the incident, Telangana Film Development Corporation chairman Dil Raju intervened and helped arrange medical treatment.

Her struggles were not new. In late 2025, Shyamala and her daughter were reportedly rescued by police after being asked to leave the place where they had been staying. In 2021, filmmaker duo Raj & DK had appealed to the public to support the veteran actor after learning about her financial condition. Over the years, several members of the Telugu film fraternity, including Chiranjeevi, Pawan Kalyan, Sai Durgha Tej and Allu Arjun, also extended financial and moral support.

Shyamala's passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues, who are remembering her for the laughter she brought to audiences through her performances despite the hardships she endured away from the spotlight.