Veteran cinematographer-filmmaker Sivan no more

National award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer Sivan passed away at the age of 89. According to the reports, Sivan died of sudden cardiac arrest at his Thiruvananthapuram residence today.
Ace filmmaker Sangeeth Sivan, cinematographer-filmmaker Santosh Sivan, and filmmaker Sanjeev Sivan are his sons.
Sangeeth Sivan took to his social media handle and confirmed the news of his dad's demise.
“It's with great sadness that I share with you all the tragic news that my father, Mr.Sivan, breathed his last today. He was our inspiration & role model. What he accomplished was achieved through hard work, dedication, discipline & foresight. Am sure he would continue to guide us on our onward journey. Forever indebted & will always be in our hearts. Love you Dad for everything & I m sure you will be watching over us from your place among d clouds & stars. Om Shanthi,” he penned in his official Facebook handle.
“Will Miss You Dad grateful for everything you taught us. Forever indebted. You will always be our role model & inspiration #OmShanthi,” Sangeeth Sivan added.


Sivan was born as the second of six children of Gopala Pillai and Bhavaniamma of Padeettathi House in Harippad. He was the first government press photographer of Travancore. Sivan has captured the stills of many veteran leaders and politicians including Jawaharlal Nehru. In 1959 he started the Sivan Studios at Statue Junction, Thiruvananthapuram.
Sivan ventured into the movie industry in the late 1950s and one of his initial works was for the 'Chemmen'. He worked as a still photographer for the classic Malayalam movie.
Sivan is also won several accolades including the National award for Best Children's Film twice - for 'Abhayam' (1991) and 'Keshu' (2009). He has also won the National Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam for his directorial 'Yagam' released in 1982.
The film fraternity has taken to their respective social media handles to mourn the demise of Sivan.