KOCHI — Renowned Malayalam cinematographer Shaji Kumar passed away at the age of 57.
According to reports, Shaji Kumar experienced physical discomfort on Saturday night after returning to his hotel room in Alappuzha following the shoot of a new film starring Dileep. He immediately informed the film’s director, Ullas Krishna, and was rushed to a nearby hospital. He was later shifted to Ernakulam Medical Trust Hospital, where his condition initially stabilized, and he was seen interacting normally with colleagues. However, his health deteriorated rapidly last night, leading to his demise.
The unexpected passing of the veteran technician has sent shockwaves across the Malayalam film industry.
A Career Marked by Visual Excellence
Shaji Kumar began his career as an apprentice under the legendary cinematographer Vipin Mohan before establishing himself as an independent cinematographer. Known for his technical mastery over lighting, color palettes, and framing, he seamlessly transitioned from celluloid film to the digital era—a shift where many of his contemporaries struggled.
Over a career spanning more than two decades, he collaborated with prominent directors across generations, including Joshiy, Shaji Kailas, V. M. Vinu, M. Padmakumar, Vysakh, and young filmmaker Tarun Moorthi.
His last completed projects include the Mohanlal-starrer Athimanoharam and the Suresh Gopi-starrer Ottakomban.
Final Rites
Originally a native of Thiruvananthapuram, Shaji Kumar had been residing in Perumbavoor for many years.
His body will be kept for public homage at the Gokulam Convention Center from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM today. The funeral ceremony will take place at 7:00 PM on his home premises in Perumbavoor.
He is survived by his wife, Smitha, and two sons, Aryan and Suryan.
Selected Filmography
- 2001: Uthaman
- 2002: Valkannadi, Pakalppooram, Kanmashi
- 2003: Ammakilikkoodu, Pattanathil Sundaran
- 2004: Njan Salperu Ramankutty, Vellinakshatram, Satyam, Vesham
- 2005: Naran, Albhuthadweep
- 2006: Yes Your Honour, Mahasamudram, Baba Kalyani
- 2007: July 4, Nasrani
- 2008: Cycle, Veruthe Oru Bharya
- 2009: Robinhood, Red Chillies
- 2010: Pokkiri Raja
- 2011: Doctor Love, Seniors, Mambattiyan, Ponnar Shankar
- 2012: The King & The Commissioner, Mallu Singh, Madirasi, Simhasanam
- 2013: Sringaravelan, Sound Thoma
- 2014: RajadhiRaja, Ring Master, Cousins
- 2016: Pulimurugan, Saahasam (Tamil)
- 2017: Ramaleela
- 2018: Mohanlal, Odiyan, Chandragiri
- 2019: Madhura Raja, Ittymaani: Made in China
- 2022: Night Drive, Pathonpatham Noondandu
- 2023: Bandra, Kathikan
- 2024: Once Upon a Time in Kochi
- 2025: Thodarum
- 2026: Athimanoharam, Ottakomban
