Malayalam cinematographer Shaji Kumar dies at 57 amid Dileep film shoot

Renowned Malayalam cinematographer Shaji Kumar, known for films such as Pulimurugan, Naran and Thudarum, died at the age of 57 on Tuesday. He was shooting for an upcoming film starring Dileep in Alappuzha when he developed health complications over the weekend.Shaji Kumar was staying at a hotel in Alappuzha for the film's shoot when he experienced physical discomfort on Saturday night. He alerted the film's director, Ullas Krishna, following which he was taken to a nearby hospital. He was subsequently shifted to a private hospital for further treatment.Although his condition reportedly improved after admission, and he was able to speak normally, his health deteriorated again on Sunday night. His unexpected death has left the Malayalam film fraternity mourning his loss.Shaji Kumar had been living in Perumbavoor for several years. He is survived by his wife, Smitha, and sons Aryan and Sooryan. His body will be kept at Ernakulam Gokulam Convention Centre from 10 am to 1 pm. His funeral will take place at his house in Perumbavoor at 7 pm. The FEFKA Directors' Union expressed condolences, remembering the cinematographer for his contribution to Malayalam cinema.All about Shaji KumarA native of Thiruvananthapuram, Shaji Kumar was a disciple of veteran cinematographer Vipin Mohan. He began his career assisting on several films before establishing himself as an independent cinematographer. Over the years, he became a familiar name in Malayalam cinema, working in several commercially successful films. Having started out in the era of film cameras, he was known for his understanding of lighting, colour composition and framing. He also adapted to the transition to digital filmmaking and embraced newer techniques of visual storytelling.Shaji Kumar collaborated with several prominent filmmakers, including Joshiy, Shaji Kailas, V M Vinu, M Padmakumar and Vaishakh. He also worked with younger directors, including Tharun Moorthy.His filmography featured several popular titles, including Naran, Pulimurugan, Ramaleela, Odiyan, Madhura Raja, Ittymaani: Made in China, Night Drive, Pathonpatham Noottandu, Bandra, Once Upon a Time in Kochi and Thudarum.His recent cinematography assignments included Athimanoharam, starring Mohanlal and directed by Tharun Moorthy, and Suresh Gopi's Ottakomban.- Ends