Malayalam Filmmaker R. Sarath Dies; CM Satheesan Leads Tributes
Acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker R. Sarath died in Thiruvananthapuram. Chief Minister VD Satheesan and the state government paid tribute, with full state honours at his funeral.
R. Sarath, the acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker known for his distinctive and award-winning cinema, passed away on Monday in Thiruvananthapuram. His death has drawn an outpouring of grief from the film fraternity and the public.
Chief Minister VD Satheesan remembered Sarath as a noted director whose debut film, Sayahnam, which he wrote and directed, won seven state awards. The CM also highlighted Sarath's other acclaimed works, including Sthithi and Seelabathi, and his documentary The Painted Epics, based on the life and works of Raja Ravi Varma, which received widespread appreciation.
Mourning the loss as "irreparable" to the film and cultural community, the Chief Minister extended his condolences to Sarath's family and friends.
The Government of Keralam expressed profound grief, describing Sarath as a renowned director and screenwriter who earned several national and state accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Film for Sayahnam, as well as the State Award for Second Best Film for Sthithi.
The state has made official arrangements for the filmmaker's funeral, scheduled for Monday at 5:30 pm at Santhikavadam in Thiruvananthapuram. The District Collector will place wreaths on behalf of the government and the Chief Minister, and the Commissioner of Police has been directed to ensure police honours, including a bugle salute, during the funeral.
Tributes have been pouring in on social media from fans and colleagues, reflecting the deep impact of Sarath's work on Malayalam cinema.