National Award-winning cinematographer-filmmaker R. Chezhiyan passes away, tributes pour in
National Award-winning cinematographer, filmmaker and author R. Chezhiyan passed away in Chennai on Friday following a prolonged illness. He was 57.
He had been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Taramani before his death.
Members of the Tamil film industry, including actors and filmmakers, paid tribute to his contributions to cinema and remembered him for his distinctive visual storytelling and realistic filmmaking style.
Originally from Sivagangai, Chezhiyan studied engineering before pursuing a career in photography and cinema. He began as an assistant to cinematographer P. C. Sreeram and later made his independent debut with Kalloori in 2007.
Over the years, he worked on acclaimed films including Rettaisuzhi, Thenmerku Paruvakaatru, Magizhchi, Paradesi and Joker.
His cinematography for Paradesi earned international recognition, including the Best Cinematographer award at the London International Film Festival in 2013.
Chezhiyan later turned director with To Let, which received the National Film Award and gained appreciation at several international film festivals.
Apart from filmmaking, he was also known for his writings on cinema. His book Ulaga Cinema introduced readers to world cinema and became popular among students and film enthusiasts. He also started a filmmaking school and made it a success.
The Tamil film fraternity continued to express condolences, remembering him as a filmmaker dedicated to artistic excellence and meaningful storytelling.