Published Nov 10, 2026 | 9:21 AM ⚊ Updated Nov 10, 2026 | 9:24 AM
Shaji Kumar made his independent debut with Uthaman in 2001.
Renowned Malayalam cinematographer Shaji Kumar, who shot over 50 films, including the recent blockbuster Thudarum, died at a private hospital in Kochi early Tuesday. He was 57.
He was admitted to the hospital two days ago after experiencing physical discomfort while shooting for a film featuring actor Dileep in Alappuzha.
He was initially taken to a hospital in Alappuzha before being transferred to Kochi for advanced treatment.
Though his condition had improved and he had been moved out of the ICU to a regular room, Kumar collapsed while walking to the restroom around Sunday night.
Shaji Kumar’s death is a major loss to Malayalam cinema, where he had carved out a distinct identity through his visual craft.
He was the cinematographer of Pulimurugan, the first Malayalam film to cross the Rs 100-crore mark, besides popular films such as Naran, Odiyan, Madhura Raja, Pokkiri Raja and Nasrani. He also held the camera for actor Mohanlal’s recent blockbuster Thudarum.
Starting his career as an associate of veteran cinematographer Vipin Mohan, Shaji Kumar made his independent debut with Uthaman in 2001.
Over the years, he became a sought-after cinematographer, working with filmmakers across generations.
His collaborations included established directors such as Joshiy, Shaji Kailas, V.M. Vinu, M. Padmakumar and Vysakh, as well as younger filmmakers such as Tharun Moorthy.
Beginning his career in the celluloid era, Shaji Kumar successfully adapted to the transition to digital filmmaking.
His command over lighting, colour and framing, coupled with his willingness to embrace changing camera technologies and visual techniques, helped him remain relevant through different phases of Malayalam cinema.
His filmography includes Baba Kalyani, Vellinakshatram, Athbhutha Dweepu, Robin Hood, Mallu Singh, Ring Master, Pathonpatham Noottandu and Bandra, among several others.
His recent assignments included Mohanlal’s Athimanoharam, directed by Tharun Moorthy, and Suresh Gopi’s Ottakkomban.
The release of Athimanoharam is scheduled for the end of next month.
(Edited by Fayisa CA)
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