Malayalam cinematographer Shaji Kumar has passed away at the age of 57.
Shaji Kumar was working on the sets of a Dileep-starrer when he reportedly complained of discomfort. He was rushed to a nearby hospital in Kochi, where he died.
Actor Mohanlal is deeply saddened by his death. The veteran actor, who shared a close relationship with the cinematographer, also visited to pay his last respects.
A10 @Mohanlal at Shaji Kumar’s funeral https://t.co/8Ro8fNBYTf
— Matt.S (@mattskumar1) November 10, 2026
Mohanlal and Shaji Kumar had worked together in many films over the years. Their support is included Naran, Pulimurugan, Odion And thudarum. Shaji Kumar was also associated with Mohanlal’s upcoming film. Attimanoharamwhich marked their latest collaboration.
After learning of his death on Tuesday, Mohanlal took to Facebook to pay tribute to the cinematographer.
Remembering their contributions to cinema and their friendship over the years, the actor wrote in Malayalam, “Dear Shaji Kumar, you have left us, and your passing is very sad. Shaji, who left an indelible mark on the world of cinematography with his unique artistic vision, will always be remembered for his exceptional performance till they were together in our last film.” Attimanoharam. Our journey together also included memorable films like Naran, Pulimurugan, Odiyan and Thudaram.
He added, “Shaji was a rare talent who could capture the depth of human emotions through his lens. Apart from our professional collaboration, we shared a special bond of love and friendship that I will always cherish.”
Shaji Kumar, who started his career as an assistant to noted cinematographer Vipin Mohan, established himself as an inventive director of photography, working with some of the biggest stars and leading filmmakers of Malayalam cinema.
His association with director Visakh produced some of Malayalam cinema’s biggest commercial successes, notably the Mohanlal-starrer. Pulimurugan (2016), which became the first Malayalam film to cross the Rs 100 crore mark at the box office.
He worked with directors of several generations including Joshi, Shaji Kailas, VM Vinu, M Padmakumar, Visakh and Tarun Murthy.
His recent work included the Mohanlal-starrer thudarum (2025), directed by Tarun Murthy.
Mohanlal’s upcoming movie Athimanoharam and Suresh Gopi Otakkomban They were among the last projects he worked on.
Also Read: Malayalam cinematographer Shaji Kumar, known for Mohanlal’s Pulimurugan, dies at 57