Award-winning Tamil filmmaker Chezhiyan passes away; Vijay Sethupathi, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar and others pay tribute
Chennai, July 10
Award-winning Tamil filmmaker and cinematographer Chezhiyan has passed away, leaving the Tamil film fraternity and admirers in deep sorrow.
As the news of Chezhiyan's demise came out, political leaders, actors, filmmakers and many other industry colleagues took to social media and paid heartfelt tributes.
Actor Vijay Sethupathi mourned the filmmaker's passing and wrote, "Rest in peace, Chezhiyan sir."
Actor Varalaxmi Sarathkumar recalled fond memories of working with the late cinematographer and added, "It's very sad to be hearing the news these days ... @Rchezhi He was the nicest human being and such an amazing cinematographer.. I have such fond memories of us working in #tharathappatai and #kondralpavaam he was always there supporting me and always cheering me on.. you will be missed sir.. very dearly by me.!!"
Filmmaker Sasikumar, in his tributes, said, "A good cinematographer does not merely create scenes; they breathe life into emotions as well. Our deepest tribute to Chezhiyan Sar, who safeguarded that art throughout his lifetime #RIPChezhiyan."
Actor Kayal Devaraj deeply grieved the passing of his longtime friend Chezhiyan.
"#Chezhiyan is my friend. Village companion. The life companion who boarded the train with me when I set off for Chennai for the cinema. I don't even know how to offer condolences to his family," he wrote.
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi also offered her tributes on X, sending deepest condolences to the grieving family.
"The news of the passing of Mr Chezhiyan, a Tamil film cinematographer and director, brings immense sorrow. As the director of the National Award-winning film 'To Let ' and as a trainer who, through his film workshops, encouraged and guided the younger generation of creative artists, he was instrumental in opening the gateway to world cinema for readers on the Tamil public platform through his writings. I convey my deepest condolences to his family, the film fraternity, and his readers," she wrote.
A prominent face in the Tamil film industry, Chezhiyan, passed away in Chennai on Friday. He was known for his work in films like 'Kalloori', Paradesi' and 'To Let'.
Chezhiyan's directorial venture 'To Let' won the Best Feature Film Award at the 65th National Film Awards.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Very sad news. I remember watching 'Kalloori' and being amazed by the cinematography. He had a unique way of capturing emotions without words. His workshops helped so many young filmmakers find their path. Tamil cinema has lost a gem. 😔
It's heartbreaking to see such talented artists leave us too soon. Chezhiyan was not just a cinematographer, he was a teacher who mentored many. His National Award for 'To Let' was well-deserved. I hope the industry continues to support independent cinema like he did. Condolences to his family.
I feel the industry needs to do more to preserve the legacy of such artists. Many young filmmakers don't even know about his work. His workshops and writings were a gateway to world cinema for Tamil readers. We should celebrate his life by watching his films. 🎬
Varalaxmi's tribute was so heartfelt - she truly valued his friendship. It's touching to see how many people he influenced. Chezhiyan showed that cinema can be both artistic and socially relevant. 'Paradesi' was another great example of his vision. Om Shanti 🙏
I had the privilege of attending one of his workshops in Chennai. He was so humble and passionate about teaching. He always said, 'The camera is just a tool, the real art is in the mind.' His passing is a huge loss for Tamil cinema and film education. Rest in power, sir.
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