Veteran Malayalam Filmmaker Shaji N Karun Passes Away At 73; Shashi Tharoor Offers Condolences
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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.
Veteran filmmaker and screenwriter Shaji N Karun passed away at the age of 73. His name was considered synonymous with artistic brilliance in Malayalam cinema. Known for his simple yet deep, visually striking storytelling, Shaji had carved a distinct space in the world of parallel cinema. He was known for critically-acclaimed films such as Piravi (1988), Swaham (1994), Vanaprastham (1999), and Kutty Srank (2009), and others.
Shaji N Karun was an alumnus of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. The institute expressed their condolences via an X (formerly Twitter) post. It read: '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
Indian National Congress MP Shashi Tharoor offered his condolences. Expressing shock over Shaji N Karun's demise, the politician told PTI, '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."
He continued, 'You remember his first movie, Piravi, when he was just in his mid 30's, was not only a national award winner, but got special mention in Cannes, had global recognition, he went on to make many other fine films, but what is striking that he was the master of depiction of grief, heartbreak, pain, and today he leaves us like almost like a scene in one of his films, in leaving us with a moment of desolation, and loss… I extend my condolences to his family."
Shaji N Karun's glorious filmography
Shaji N Karun made his directorial debut with Piravi (1988), a powerful film inspired by the real-life tragedy of Rajan's disappearance during the Emergency. The movie was a landmark in Indian cinema, winning the Caméra d'Or – Special Mention at the Cannes Film Festival, and several National and international awards. It brought global attention to Malayalam cinema's emotional depth and cultural richness.
He followed it up with masterpieces like Swaham (1994), which competed for the Palme d'Or at Cannes—a rare achievement for an Indian film. His other notable works include Vanaprastham (1999), starring Mohanlal, which was screened at the Cannes Film Festival and received widespread acclaim for its exploration of identity and art.
As a cinematographer, Shaji contributed to classics like G Aravindan's Kanchana Sita and Esthappan, showcasing his mastery of visual storytelling long before he turned to direction. His films often delved into themes of human suffering, memory, and existential longing, using stunning imagery and subtle emotions.
Apart from filmmaking, Shaji also played a crucial role in shaping India's film culture, serving as the founding chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK).
In 2024, Shaji N Karun was honoured with the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, for his invaluable contributions to Indian cinema. His visionary storytelling will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers across the globe.
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