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Last Updated: April 28, 2025, 20:13 IST
Veteran filmmaker Shaji N Karun, known for his visually striking storytelling in Malayalam cinema, passed away at 73. His acclaimed works include Piravi, Swaham, and Kutty Srank.
The film industry mourns the loss of another great as veteran filmmaker and screenwriter Shaji N Karun passes away at the age of 73. Renowned for his artistic brilliance, Karun had become a significant name in Malayalam cinema, particularly in the realm of parallel filmmaking. His storytelling style, marked by simplicity and deep emotional resonance, earned him acclaim for films such as Piravi (1988), Swaham (1994), Vanaprastham (1999), and Kutty Srank (2009).
Shaji N Karun graduated from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, where his legacy continues to inspire future filmmakers. In response to his passing, the institute extended heartfelt condolences, stating: “The Film and Television Institute of India, Pune deeply mourns the passing away of our distinguished alumnus, Shri Shaji N Karun. A master storyteller and a pioneer of Malayalam cinema, his work enriched Indian filmmaking. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”
The Film and Television Institute of India, Pune deeply mourns the passing away of our distinguished alumnus, Shri Shaji N Karun. A master storyteller and a pioneer of Malayalam cinema, his work enriched Indian filmmaking. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/9slN9fIQGB
— FTII (@FTIIOfficial) April 28, 2025
Shashi Tharoor, an MP from the Indian National Congress, also expressed his sorrow at Karun’s passing, remarking on the filmmaker’s significant impact on Indian cinema. Tharoor stated, “I am truly shocked and saddened by this news. Shaji N Karun was one of the greats, no question about it. If you were to name half a dozen of the great Indian directors, he would be one of them. He had such extraordinary success.”
Tharoor reminisced on Karun’s impactful debut, Piravi, which not only won national awards but also garnered special recognition at Cannes. He emphasized how Karun’s ability to depict profound themes of grief and heartbreak resonated in his films, leaving audiences with a lasting sense of desolation and loss.
Shaji N Karun’s Glorious Filmography
Shaji’s directorial journey began with Piravi (1988), a poignant narrative inspired by the real-life disappearance of Rajan during the Emergency. This landmark film set a new benchmark in Indian cinema, earning the Caméra d’Or – Special Mention at the Cannes Film Festival alongside numerous national and international accolades, bringing global attention to the emotional depth and cultural richness of Malayalam films.
He continued to impress audiences with masterpieces like Swaham (1994), which competed for the prestigious Palme d’Or at Cannes—a feat that highlighted the film’s significance within Indian cinema. Other notable works include Vanaprastham (1999), featuring Mohanlal, which further solidified his reputation on the international stage.
Before embarking on his directing career, Shaji honed his skills as a cinematographer, contributing to classics such as G Aravindan’s Kanchana Sita and Esthappan. His films often explore the complexities of human experience, employing stunning visuals and subtle emotional narratives.
A driving force behind the evolution of India’s film culture, Shaji also played an instrumental role in establishing the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Indian cinema, Shaji N Karun was awarded the Padma Shri in 2024, an honor that reflects his visionary storytelling capabilities which continue to inspire filmmakers around the world.
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