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Iconic Malayalam Filmmaker Shaji N Karun Dies at 73

The celebrated director and cinematographer, known for his global impact on Indian cinema, passed away in Thiruvananthapuram after a prolonged battle with cancer.

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Celebrated Malayalam filmmaker Shaji N Karun at the International Film Festival of Kerala in Thiruvananthapuram in December last year.
Legendary Malayalam filmmaker and cinematographer Shaji N Karun, known for his pathbreaking films and distinctive style of movie died in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday.
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Overview

  • Shaji N Karun, a pioneer of Malayalam new-wave cinema, died on April 28, 2025, at his residence in Thiruvananthapuram at the age of 73.
  • His directorial debut, 'Piravi' (1988), won international acclaim, including a Special Mention at Cannes, and established his reputation as a master of visual storytelling.
  • Karun's films, including 'Swaham' (1994) and 'Vanaprastham' (1999), were showcased at prestigious festivals like Cannes, earning him global recognition.
  • As the founding chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, he played a crucial role in establishing the International Film Festival of Kerala.
  • Honored with awards such as the Padma Shri (2011) and France’s Chevalier des Arts et Lettres, Karun leaves behind a legacy of cinematic excellence and institutional contributions.