Award-winning director and cinematographer Chezhiyan is no more

Director Chezhiyan. File | Photo credit: M. Samraj

Award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer R. Chezhiyan, best known for his critically acclaimed To Let, has died aged 57 after a long illness. He was a member of the International Institute of Film Culture (IIFC).

The Flight, which poignantly portrays the plight of a lower-middle-class family looking for a rental house, struck a chord with audiences and critics alike. It won the Best Film Award in the Indian Language Competition section at the 23rd Kolkata International Film Festival. The award included a Golden Bengal Tiger trophy, a cash prize of ₹7,000 and a certificate.

Also read | Filming is simple, says director Chezhiyan

Chezhiyan’s minimalist approach to filmmaking was evident in To Let, where he deliberately chose not to use background music despite music being an integral part of Tamil cinema. Speaking to The Hindu after winning the award in Kolkata, he said, “As we move towards a realistic film, the first element that has to go is the music.”

A native of Nattarasankottai in Sivaganga district, Chezhiyan was an engineer before turning to cinema. He started his career under renowned cinematographer PC Sriram and went on to create a distinct identity in the film industry. As a cinematographer, he worked on acclaimed films like Thenmerku Paruvakaatru, Paradesi and Joker before making his mark as a director.

“His knowledge of cinema and filmmaking was extraordinary. I convinced him to write a series on world cinema for Ananda Vikatan, which was later published as a book. He was meticulous in his work and above all a wonderful person,” said R. Kannan, former editor of Vikatan Group.

Also read | Chezhiyan on directing ‘To Let’

In addition to working behind the camera, Chezhiyan was widely respected as a mentor. Through The Film School, he has trained dozens of aspiring filmmakers, many of whom have gone on to make a name for themselves in the industry.

“He was a great mentor. He trained many youngsters through the Film School and more than 30 of them are now working in the film industry,” said Mr. Kannan.

Published – 10 July 2026 11:06 AM IST