TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains mention of death.The Malayalam film industry is mourning the unexpected demise of cinematographer Shaji Kumar. In a heartbreaking detail, his friends revealed that Mohanlal was the last person he spoke to over a video call. Shaji Kumar had been undergoing treatment at a hospital in Ernakulam after experiencing chest pain during a film shoot. His condition had reportedly improved, and he had even been shifted out of the intensive care unit. During his final conversation with Mohanlal, he reportedly assured the actor that he was doing well. However, he passed away unexpectedly shortly afterwards.
Shaji Kumar spoke to Mohanlal shortly before his demise
Shaji Kumar reportedly experienced discomfort two days earlier while working on a film starring Dileep in Alappuzha. After complaining of chest pain, he was taken to Medical Trust Hospital in Ernakulam. He was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), where doctors monitored and treated him.His condition subsequently showed signs of improvement. At around 9.30 pm on Monday, he was shifted from the ICU to a hospital room. According to On Manorama, he was reportedly speaking normally with visitors and had informed close friends that his health was getting better. During this period, he made a video call to Mohanlal and told him that he was doing okay.
Cinematographer reportedly collapsed while heading to washroom
As reported by On Manorama, according to his friends, Shaji Kumar was in a happy mood after speaking to Mohanlal. However, the situation took a sudden turn before he went to sleep. He reportedly collapsed while walking towards the washroom. Medical personnel immediately attempted to revive him, including through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Despite the emergency treatment, they could not save him.Shaji Kumar’s final conversation with Mohanlal has added to the emotional impact of his sudden passing. The two shared a close personal bond, built over several years of working together on Malayalam films.
Shaji Kumar and Mohanlal collaborated on several films
The cinematographer played an important role in some of Mohanlal’s notable projects. Their collaborations included ‘Naran’, ‘Pulimurugan’, ‘Odiyan’ and ‘Thudarum’. Shaji Kumar had also been associated with the actor’s upcoming film ‘Athimanoharam’, which marked their latest collaboration.
Mohanlal pays tribute to his longtime collaborator
On Tuesday, Mohanlal took to Facebook to remember the cinematographer. The actor recalled their years of collaboration and praised his distinctive contribution to the world of cinematography.Remembering their friendship and professional journey, Mohanlal wrote in Malayalam, “Dear Shaji Kumar, you have left us, and your demise is deeply saddening. Shaji, who left an indelible mark in the world of cinematography with his distinctive artistic vision, will always be remembered for his exceptional talent. He stood by me right up until our last film together, *Athimanoharam*. Our journey together also included memorable films such as Naran, Pulimurugan, Odiyan and Thudarum. “
Shaji Kumar leaves behind a notable body of work
Shaji Kumar had worked on more than 50 films during his career and established himself as a prominent cinematographer in Malayalam cinema. His filmography included several commercially successful and widely discussed projects. His work on films such as ‘Naran’, ‘Pulimurugan’ and ‘Odiyan’ also brought him recognition among audiences.At the time of his demise, he had projects including ‘Athimanoharam’ and ‘Ottakkomban’ in his professional commitments.