Crime Today News
Legendary filmmaker and cinematographer Shaji Neelakantan Karunakaran, better known as Shaji N Karun, passed away on Monday. He was 73.
Born on January 1, 1952, in Kollam, Kerala, Shaji grew up in a culturally rich household. His family later moved to Thiruvananthapuram, where he studied at Palkulangara High School and University College. In 1971, he joined the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), graduating in 1974 with a gold medal in cinematography. His student film, Genesis, had already hinted at his future promise.
Shaji N Karun began his career as a cinematographer, working closely with filmmakers like G. Aravindan and KG George. His work in films such as Kummaty, Thampu, Esthappan, and Yavanika was widely noted for its inventive use of light and rhythm. His directorial debut Piravi — a moving tale about a father’s search for his missing son during the Emergency — won him the National Award for Best Director and a Caméra d’Or Special Mention at the 1989 Cannes Film Festival. His next film Swaham became only the second Indian film after Salaam Bombay! to compete in Cannes’ main section.
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Vanaprastham, starring Mohanlal, further cemented his international reputation, exploring the loneliness of an artiste trapped between tradition and modernity. His later films, including Kutty Srank, Swapaanam, and Olu, continued to create waves for its poignant portrayal of human nature. Until his death, he served as chairman of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation, remaining a guiding force for Malayalam cinema.
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