The Tamil film industry is in mourning today after National Award-winning actor, filmmaker and writer R. Chezhiyan passed away in Chennai on Friday. A director with a visual style based in reality and heavy stories, Chezhiyan has left a lasting mark with his work behind the camera and in the director’s chair. His death is a great loss to the film fraternity. Actors, fans, and others took to social media to reminisce about their contribution to Tamil cinema over the years.
R Chezhiyan died after a long illness
According to News 18 reports, R. Chezhiyan was receiving treatment at a special hospital in Taramani after a long illness. He died on Friday morning, despite receiving medical attention. Born in Sivaganga, Chezhiyan completed his engineering degree and then pursued his passion for photography and film. He started his film career as an assistant to the famous television actor PC Sreeram. Since his debut as an independent artist with Kalloori in 2007, he has become one of the most popular actors in Tamil cinema.
Award-winning work behind the camera and as a director
R. Chezhiyan went to the lens of several popular films such as ‘Rettaisuzhi’, ‘Thenmerku Paruvakaatru’, ‘Magizhchi’, ‘Paradesi’ and ‘Joker’. His excellent work in Bala’s ‘Paradesi’ won him the Best Cinematographer award at the London International Film Festival in 2013. Later, he went on to direct with ‘To Let,’ which won the National Film Award and was acclaimed at several international festivals. Apart from making films, he was also a famous writer. His book ‘Ulaga Cinema’ became very popular among film students and film lovers.
A legacy that will continue to inspire generations
R. Chezhiyan’s contribution was more than filming. His films were authentic, touching, and honest, and his writing inspired viewers to see world cinema in a new way. The Tamil film industry is still sending his condolences as they believe that he was not an ordinary actor but a person who dedicated all his films to good cinema. He’s gone, but his award-winning films, visuals, and scripts will keep directors and moviegoers entertained for years to come.
