KOZHIKODE: The body of Santhadevi, who died yesterday, has been consigned to flames with state honours.

Many from different walks of life paid homage to the departed soul when the body was kept at the Town Hall in the district.

Ministers Binoy Viswom, Elaram Kareem and many from the film field including Kaithapram Damodaran Namboodiri, Mamookoya, Augustine, T A Rasaq paid homage. District collector placed a wreath on behalf of Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan.

A rare artiste who excelled in both theatre and cinema, Santhadevi began her career in the drama Smarakam. Minnaminungu is her first film and Kerala Café the last. Her career as an actress covers for over 50 long years. She had won many awards including state award for best supporting actress.

She led a very miserable life as she had to spend her later part of life in an old age home. Deserted by all family members, Shanthadevi’s husband and younger son Sathyajith died very early.