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For decades, Pavala Shyamala appeared in Telugu cinema as a familiar supporting face, bringing warmth and emotion to numerous films. But away from the spotlight, the veteran actor is now fighting a painful battle involving poor health, financial hardship and uncertainty over medical care.
The actress reportedly faced a distressing ordeal in Hyderabad on May 15 after seeking treatment for a heart-related illness at a private hospital in Kukatpally. According to reports, she was allegedly denied admission because of financial difficulties, leaving her in a vulnerable condition.
The situation reportedly became more alarming after hospital authorities arranged a cab for her following the refusal of treatment. However, reports claimed that the cab driver later abandoned her on the streets.
Eyewitnesses reportedly found Pavala Shyamala wandering in a confused state before passersby recognised her and alerted the police. Authorities later arrived at the location and contacted the RK Foundation for immediate assistance.
Speaking to Siasat, Dr Ramakrishna from the RK Foundation stated that the actress had already been receiving free treatment through the organisation for the last two to three years. However, since the foundation did not have specialised cardiology facilities, she had to approach another hospital for advanced care.
According to him, Pavala Shyamala is currently undergoing treatment at a different medical facility and is expected to return to the foundation after her condition stabilises.
The heartbreaking incident has once again drawn attention to the financial and health struggles faced by the veteran actor over the past few years.
Pavala Shyamala began her acting journey with the 1984 Telugu film Challenge and went on to appear in several well-known films including Khadgam, Andhrawala, Baba Lodge and Golimar.
Her financial difficulties first became widely discussed in 2021, when filmmaker duo Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK appealed to the public on social media to support the actress through a fundraiser on Milaap.
The campaign described her situation as extremely difficult and revealed that she was struggling to afford even basic daily necessities. It also mentioned that her daughter was bedridden and battling tuberculosis, further worsening the family’s condition.
According to the fundraiser details, the actress had even sold her awards and trophies to manage treatment expenses and household needs.
Over the years, several members of the Telugu film industry have reportedly extended support to her during difficult times.
Actor Sai Durgha Tej reportedly provided financial assistance of ₹1 lakh through the Film Journalist Association and assured her of continued support from the industry. During a video interaction with the actor at the time, Pavala Shyamala reportedly became emotional while expressing her gratitude.
The actress has also previously acknowledged help received from megastar Chiranjeevi. More recently, reports claimed that Allu Arjun also extended monetary assistance to the veteran actor.