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.