South Indian actress Tulasi, best known today for her mother roles in Telugu and Tamil films, has announced her retirement through a series of Instagram posts.
Remarkably, her decision brings an end to a 58-year career that began when she was just three months old.
She first shared a picture of Sai Baba’s feet, writing, “Guard and guide me and my son Sai!! Oh Deva, oh Sainadha.”
She followed it with a quote about trusting one’s intuition. In her next post, she confirmed her retirement with a message that read, “Happy retirement! Here’s to enjoying every minute of your newfound freedom and adventures.”
In the caption, Tulasi explained, “In continuation of my Shirdi darshan this December 31, I wish myself a happy retirement. I will continue my journey in peace with Sainadha. Thanking all for helping me learn life. Sairam.”
She disabled comments on the post.
Born on June 20, 1967, Tulasi entered Telugu cinema as an infant when Savitri, a family friend, requested to feature her in a cradle for a song in Bharya.
As a child actor, she went on to earn acclaim in films like Seetamalakshmi (1978), Sankarabharanam (1979), and Mudda Mandaram (1981).
Tulasi stepped away from films after marrying Kannada director Sivamani at age 28. They have a son, Sai Tarun.
She continued to lend her voice occasionally, including for several Mani Ratnam films.
In 2003, she returned to acting with the Kannada film Excuse Me, beginning a second innings as one of South cinema’s most sought-after on-screen mothers.
Over the years, Tulasi became a familiar face with memorable performances in Mr Perfect, Iddarammayilatho, Dear Comrade, and the web series Oka Chinna Family Story.
Her retirement marks the close of an extraordinary journey spanning nearly six decades in Indian cinema.
