Google Pays Tribute to the Unforgettable PK Rosy on Her Birthday – But Do You Know Who She Is?

Google Doodle on Friday celebrated the 120th birth anniversary of the first female lead in Malayalam cinema, PK Rosy. Born in the year 1903, Rosy was a passionate actor, who had to overcome several obstacles including being a woman in the industry and belonging to the community of Dalit Christians. She was also a prolific actor in Kakkarissi plays, a kind of folk theatre in Kerala which blends both Tamil and Malayalam. 

These plays have been popular for centuries, and Rosy was renowned for her performances in them. She was a pioneering woman in the performing arts, at a time when women were discouraged from performing. Unfortunately, her passion was not rewarded in her lifetime, but her story of determination and perseverance serves as an inspiration for many.

Her debut film was Vigathakumaran (The Lost Child, 1928) in which she played the role of an upper caste Nair girl, Sarojini. However, she received much flak after the film’s release and stones were hurled at her in the inaugural screening. 

Google praised Rosy’s story and said it serves as motivation and inspiration for many. The tech giant paid tribute to her for her courage and boldness to break boundaries and pave the way for more women in Malayalam cinema.

Despite her brief career, PK Rosy broke several barriers, especially as performing arts was not encouraged for women at the time. Rosy was born in 1903 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala to daily wagers and belonged to the community of Dalit Christians. Her debut film Vigathakumaran (The Lost Child, 1928) was met with stiff resistance as she played the role of an upper caste Nair girl. 

This resulted in Rosy facing much flak and her hut was even set ablaze. She also gained fame for her roles in Kakkarissi plays, a kind of folk theatre in Kerala which blends both Tamil and Malayalam. Even though she did not receive recognition during her lifetime, today Rosy continues to serve as motivation and inspiration for many.