Singapore — G.P. Revi, a veteran Malayalam actor celebrated for his performances during the golden era of Malayalam cinema in the 1960s, passed away in Singapore at the age of 90. A beloved figure both in India and among the Malayalee diaspora, Revi’s career spanned theatre, film, and television, leaving a lasting legacy on both stage and screen.
A Storied Life on Stage and Screen
Born and raised in Singapore, Revi moved to Kerala at the age of 14. It was during his time at a teacher training school in Attingal that he first discovered his passion for acting. He took to the stage in school plays, a talent he continued to nurture upon returning to Singapore, where he became a key member of Singapore Kairalee Kala Nilayam, a local community-based drama organisation dedicated to promoting Malayalam theatre.
Revi’s stage career was prolific, with standout performances in productions such as Cross Belt, Nanayatha Kannukal, Jeevitham Oru Kodumkattu, and Anarkkali. His work earned him several accolades, including Best Actor and Best Director awards in drama competitions, firmly establishing his role in Singapore’s Malayalee cultural scene.
In the 1960s, Revi made his cinematic debut in Malayalam films, gaining attention for his roles in Snapaka Yohannan and Snehasheema. His nuanced performances resonated with audiences and critics alike. After a successful stint in films, he transitioned into business and chose to settle permanently in Singapore.
Despite his shift in career, Revi remained closely connected to the performing arts. He featured in a number of Singapore-based productions, including Malayalam films such as Thuruppugulan (2006), Pattanathil Bhootham (2009), Love in Singapore, and IG. More recently, he appeared in Grandpa, a micro short film by the Singapore Kairalee Film Forum (SKFF), released in 2019 as part of the forum’s official launch. Watch here.
Revi was born into a distinguished family in Attingal, Kerala. He was the son of Gopala Pillai and Shyaradamma, the former Vice Chairperson of the Attingal Municipality.
He was predeceased by his wife, Santhamma, and is survived by his sons Mohan, Manoj and Mahesh, daughters-in-law Azmeen, Reshmy, and Wendy, and his beloved grandchildren: Ardon, Arwin, Thara, Daeven, Hannah, and Jayden.
He is also survived by his siblings: Dr. Balakrishna (USA), Sukumari Nair (Prashanth Nagar), G.P. Raghu (Pune), and G.P. Radhakrishnan. He was predeceased by his brother G.P. Rajan (UK).
G.P. Revi leaves behind a legacy that bridges the cultural landscapes of Kerala and Singapore through his lifelong dedication to drama and cinema. His passing marks the end of an era and is deeply mourned by the global Malayalee community.
Funeral Details
Wake
📍 37B Goodman Road, Singapore 439005
- Sunday, 15th June: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Monday, 16th June: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday, 17th June: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Farewell Prayer
Tuesday, 17th June at 1:30 PM
Cortege Departure
Leaves at 3:00 PM for Mandai Crematorium
Cremation
Mandai Crematorium Hall, 4:15 PM, Tuesday, 17th June 2025