His sudden demise has prompted an outpouring of condolences from the Malayalam film fraternity.

Shaji Kumar dies during treatment after falling ill in Alappuzha

Kumar was in Alappuzha for the shoot of the Dileep-starrer directed by Ullas Krishna when he felt unwell at his hotel on Saturday night. The director was informed, and Kumar was taken to a nearby hospital before being shifted to a private hospital in Kochi.

His condition reportedly improved after admission, but it worsened by Sunday night. He later passed away while receiving treatment. The FEFKA Directors' Union expressed its condolences and remembered his contribution to Malayalam cinema.

Pulimurugan, Naran and Thudarum: Shaji Kumar's notable films

Kumar was a native of Thiruvananthapuram and studied under veteran cinematographer Vipin Mohan before establishing himself in the industry. He made his independent cinematography debut with the 2001 Malayalam film Uthaman and went on to work on more than 50 films.

Some of his notable Malayalam films include Pulimurugan, Naran, Narasimham, Odiyan, Ramaleela, Pokkiri Raja, Madhura Raja, Ittymaani: Made in China, Night Drive and Pathonpatham Noottandu. He also worked in Tamil cinema on films such as Ponnar Shankar, Mambattiyan and Saahasam.

Kumar collaborated with directors such as Joshiy, Shaji Kailas, Vinayan and Vysakh. He began his film career during the celluloid era and was known for his expertise in lighting, colour coordination and framing. He later transitioned to digital filmmaking as the industry embraced new technology.

Shaji Kumar's upcoming films and family

Among his recent and upcoming projects were Athimanoharam, featuring Mohanlal and directed by Tharun Moorthy, and Suresh Gopi's Ottakkomban. Athimanoharam is scheduled for release on December 24.

Kumar, who had settled in Perumbavoor several years ago, is survived by his wife, Smitha, and sons, Aryan and Sooryan. His filmography, spanning more than two decades, leaves behind a lasting contribution to Malayalam cinema.