Shoba, a celebrated young actress in Malayalam cinema, won a National Award at 17 but tragically took her own life shortly after. Her mother, Prema Menon, a former actress herself, was deeply affected by Shoba's death, ultimately leading to her own suicide four years later. Their story highlights the emotional struggles within the film industry.

• 01Shoba won the National Film Award for Best Actress for her role in 'Pasi' at just 17 years old in 1979.
• 02Prema Menon, Shoba's mother, was a respected actress in Malayalam cinema, appearing in over 70 films from 1954 to the early 1980s.
• 03Shoba's marriage to filmmaker Balu Mahendra reportedly caused tension between her and her mother, Prema.
• 04Prema Menon placed food before a photograph of Shoba after her death, indicating her inability to cope with the loss.
• 05Prema died by suicide on April 5, 1984, four years after Shoba's tragic death.

The tragic story of Shoba and Prema Menon highlights the emotional struggles faced by individuals in the film industry, prompting discussions on mental health and support systems for artists.