Mammootty’s heroine changed her name and religion; was disappointed at being replaced from a big movie; quit acting to become accountant in US

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It was during this emotional low that she embraced Christianity and changed her name. She added, “My mother took me to Sahayamatha Church where I broke down in front of the idol. I returned home to a call offering the role in Amaram. I thought it was a prank played by someone who knew the Perumthachan incident but mother confirmed with the team. That incident cemented my faith in Jesus. I converted to Christianity with the backing of my parents. I changed my name, too.” Mathu, whose birth name was Madhavi, adopted the name Meena after her conversion.

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Post Amaram, which is re-releasing in theatres on November 7, Mathu went to star in Sandesham, Sadayam, Ekalavyan, and Uppukandam Brothers, among others, quitting the industry in the year 2000. Today, she works as an accountant in Long Island, USA, and enjoys a quiet life with her second husband and their two children.