Machattu Vasanthi, the renowned stage and film songstress and actress, has passed away at the age of 82. She was undergoing treatment at the Government Medical College in Kozhikode when she succumbed to her illness.

Born to Kannur Kakkad Machattu Krishnan, a radio artist and ardent Communist supporter, Vasanthi began her artistic journey at the tender age of eight. Her talent was discovered by M.S. Baburaj during a play titled "Nammolonnu," marking a turning point in her life. Baburaj mentored her, leading her to sing for various stage productions and eventually take on leading roles in many plays.

Her first breakout song, "Pachha panamthathe ponnara poomuthe poonellin poonkarale," from "Nammalonnu," was penned by Ponkunnam Damodaran and composed by Baburaj. Vasanthi made her film debut as a playback singer in "Minnaminungu," directed by Ramu Kariat, with notable songs like "Thathamme thathathamme Nee Paatiyal Athipazham thanneetum" and "Aaru chollitum aaru chollitum," written by P. Bhaskaran.

Throughout her illustrious career, Vasanthi lent her voice to various memorable songs, including a duet with Yesudas in "Olavum Theeravum," titled "Manimaaran thannathu panamalla, ponnalla, madurakkinaavinte karimbin thottam," and the popular track "Pathiri chuttu" from Dileep's film "Meesa Madhavan."

Her stage performances included major plays such as "Thilhakkunna Katal" by Nellikkodu Bhaskaran, "Aedipus" from Deshaposhini, "Ballatha Pahayan" by Bahadur, P.J. Antony’s "Uhavu Chaal," "Karutha Pennu" of Raja Theatres, and KPAC’s "Ningalenne Communistakki." Vasanthi's contributions to the arts will be remembered fondly by many.