Kalpana Ranjani

Biography

Kalpana Ranjani, popularly known simply as Kalpana, was a celebrated Indian actress who left an indelible mark on South Indian cinema, particularly in Malayalam films. Born on 13 October 1965 in Kollam, Kerala, she hailed from a family deeply rooted in the film industry — her sisters, Kalaranjini and Urvashi, are also acclaimed actresses.

Kalpana began her acting career as a child artist in the late 1970s and made her full-fledged debut with the Malayalam film Pokkuveyil (1982). Over the years, she became known for her remarkable versatility, effortlessly switching between comedic, emotional, and character-driven roles. Her impeccable comic timing, expressive performances, and natural flair for dialogue delivery made her one of the most beloved actresses in Malayalam cinema.

Throughout her illustrious career, Kalpana appeared in over 300 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada languages. Some of her most memorable performances include Sathi Leelavathi (1995), Chinna Veedu (1985), Janapriyan (2011), and Charlie (2015). Her role in Charlie earned her the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2016, posthumously, honoring her immense contribution to cinema.

In addition to films, Kalpana was also active in television serials and stage performances, where her charisma and humor resonated with audiences of all ages.

Tragically, Kalpana passed away on 25 January 2016 in Hyderabad at the age of 50, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable performances and an enduring influence on South Indian cinema.

Notable Films:

Pokkuveyil (1982)

Chinna Veedu (1985)

Sathi Leelavathi (1995)

Janapriyan (2011)

Charlie (2015)

Born: 13 October 1965, Kollam, Kerala, India
Died: 25 January 2016, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Occupation: Actress
Active Years: 1977 – 2016
Awards: National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress (Charlie, 2016)