Thrissur fireworks tragedy: Malayalam film industry mourns loss of makeup artist Biju

Kochi: Prominent figures in Malayalam film industry on Thursday mourned the tragic death of acclaimed makeup artist Bijeesh Balan, who was among the victims of the devastating Mundathikode firecracker explosion mishap in Thrissur. Known affectionately in the industry as ‘Biji', the Thrissur native contributed to the makeup teams of films like ‘She Taxi' and ‘Margamkali'. "Biji was a rising, highly skilled makeup artist. In fact, he was working on the upcoming film Thudakkam, directed by Jude Anthany Joseph and starring Vismaya Mohanlal. He was in the industry for over a decade and worked as the personal makeup artist of leading artists like Kavya Madhavan, Ananya and Namitha Pramod for a long time," said Pradeep Rangan, a noted makeup artist and the secretary of All Kerala Cine Makeup Artists and Hairstylist Union. The news of his untimely demise triggered a wave of grief across social media. Actress Namitha Pramod, who shared a professional and personal bond with Bijeesh for over eight years, penned a heart touching tribute. "…You took care of me for more than eight years. You were never just my makeup artist, you were family. You made me feel safe, happy and comfortable every single day at work. I always saw you as my brother. You were so innocent, so genuine… one of the purest souls I've ever known. Your love and excitement for Thrissur Pooram was unmatched, and it breaks my heart that you're gone like this. I don't know how I'll step onto a set again without you. You were such an important part of my life..," she wrote on her Facebook post. Actress Annya shared that Bijeesh had been her personal makeup artist for the last 13 years. Director Jude Anthany Joseph described the news as ‘heartbreaking', while actor Bobby Kurian, who plays a supporting role in the film Thudakkam, also offered his condolences to Bijeesh's family and friends. Fefka (Film Employees Federation of Kerala) issued a formal statement honouring his contributions and describing him as a disciplined and beloved member of the union "whose absence would be felt across the entire fraternity".