Renowned Indian filmmaker and cinematographer Shaji N Karun, a pivotal figure in Malayalam cinema, passed away on April 28, 2025, at the age of 73. He died at his residence in Vazhuthacaud, Thiruvananthapuram, after a prolonged battle with cancer. His passing leaves behind a profound legacy that has significantly shaped the landscape of Indian cinema.
Born on January 1, 1952, in Kollam, Kerala, Shaji N Karun graduated from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, where he specialized in cinematography. He began his illustrious career as a cinematographer, collaborating with legendary filmmakers such as G Aravindan. His work behind the camera in films like Kanchana Sita (1977), Thampu (1978), and Kummatty (1979) showcased his technical brilliance and artistic vision.
Shaji made his directorial debut in 1988 with Piravi, a poignant exploration of grief and resilience, inspired by personal tragedy. The film received widespread acclaim, winning 31 awards, including the prestigious Camera d'Or — Special Mention at the Cannes Film Festival. It was screened at nearly 70 international film festivals, marking Shaji's arrival on the global stage.
His subsequent films, including Swaham (1994), Vanaprastham (1999), and Kutty Srank (2009), further solidified his reputation as a master storyteller. Vanaprastham was notably selected for screening at Cannes, and Shaji's unique blend of lyrical imagery and deep humanism resonated with audiences worldwide. His works often explored themes of loss, identity, and transcendence, striking a universal chord.
Beyond his contributions as a filmmaker, Shaji played a transformative role in nurturing Kerala’s film culture. He was the founding chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and served as the executive chairman of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), which he helped establish as one of Asia's premier film festivals. His leadership significantly raised the festival's profile on the global stage.
Shaji N Karun's artistic achievements were recognized with numerous accolades throughout his career. The Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri in 2010, while France honored him with the Chevalier des Arts et Lettres in 2000. He also received the J C Daniel Award, the highest honor in Kerala for lifetime contribution to cinema, just weeks before his death.
Leaders from across the political spectrum expressed their condolences following his passing. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan praised Shaji as a director who beautifully intertwined cinema with visual art, calling him a rare figure who excelled across multiple facets of filmmaking. Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan remembered Shaji as a talent who elevated Malayalam cinema to the global stage, highlighting his contributions to the art form without compromising on artistic value for commercial gains.
M V Govindan, the CPI(M) State Secretary, described him as a “unique film genius” who combined social commitment with artistic excellence. He noted that Shaji’s films earned global recognition for Malayalam cinema and that his contributions would always be remembered. Kerala Assembly Speaker A N Shamseer echoed these sentiments, recalling Shaji's invaluable contributions to cinema and the lasting impact of his work.
Shaji N Karun's films have won seven National Film Awards and as many Kerala State Film Awards, including the National Award for Best Director for Piravi. His film Kutty Srank bagged the national award for Best Feature Film in 2010. His last film, Oolu, was released in 2018, featuring young actors Shane Nigam and Esther Anil in a fantasy narrative.
Despite his illustrious career, Shaji faced challenges in his later years. He was involved in a controversy surrounding a Kerala government project aimed at funding female filmmakers, where several women alleged poor treatment under his supervision as the chairman of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC). This led to criticism regarding his appointment to the state government's film policy committee.
In his own words, Shaji once remarked, “You can’t judge a book by the number of pages; it’s the content that transfers to the mind.” This philosophy guided his filmmaking, as he crafted his narratives with patience and conviction. He believed that the honesty of work was sacred, stating that a work made with integrity would be remembered regardless of its reviews.
Shaji N Karun’s body will be kept at Kalabhavan Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram for public homage on April 29, 2025, from 10:30 AM. His cremation will take place at Santhikavadom, Thycaud, with state honors. He is survived by his wife, Anasuya Devaki Warrier, and their two sons, Appu and Anil.
