Overview

• He suffered a sudden cardiac arrest aboard a bus from Madurai to Chennai after pitching a new script and was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital on June 2.
• Sugumaran began his career under director Balu Mahendra and earned acclaim with his 2013 debut Madha Yaanai Kootam, praised for its raw portrayal of caste and village life.
• His most recent film, 2023’s Raavana Kottam starring Shanthnu Bhagyaraj, addressed social themes but failed to connect with a broader audience.
• At the time of his death he was developing Therum Porum, leaving the director’s final project without a clear path forward.
• He is survived by his wife and children in Chennai and has been remembered online for his integrity and authentic storytelling voice.