Maria Elena Velasco, 'La India Maria' Mexican Comedian, Dies at 74

Mexican comedian Maria Elena Velasco, known to most as “The Indian Maria” character who poked fun at stereotypes, died Friday at age 74.

Also a screenwriter and director, the star was known for her character “La India Maria,” who was often accompanied by her donkey Filemon. She dressed in the classic colorful blouses, full skirts, and braids of Mexico’s Indian people.

The beloved actress and comedian was a popular figure for many as her Indian Maria character starred on television and in film.

“The iconic ‘India María’ made her last appearance at the premiere of ‘La Hija de Moctezuma’ in 2014, which was Velasco’s last film as the emblematic character that we all love, and adore,” the Latin Times wrote. “During the event, María Elena Velasco herself introduced the movie to the audience, ‘It is different to everything that is out there, what we want with this film is to convey fun, laughter, relaxation, that is the function of this film, which is very different that any other genre.’”

She was mourned online by her many fans:

RIP to Maria Elena Velasco. The reason besides novelas that my mom and I could bond in my childhood. Ay la India Maria

— Brenda Sanchez (@BrendatheBliss) May 1, 2015

Funniest & cutest Mexican actress ever! RIP #LaIndiaMaria http://t.co/xEpC027tNC pic.twitter.com/3BfOu567bX

— araceli cruz (@chelipj) May 1, 2015

💔 RIP to one of the funniest comedians, La India Maria, to ever exist. I guess God needs someone to make him laugh.❤️ pic.twitter.com/br3S380DS6

— Louis (@1DqueenMiley) May 1, 2015

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