Chennai: K Balachander, popularly hailed as 'Iyakunar Sigaram' (the peak among directors), one of India's most prolific filmmakers, passed away at a private hospital in the city on Tuesday at 7.05 pm. He was 84. He was battling prolonged illness over the last one week.
He was battling prolonged illness over the last one week at Kaveri Hospital where he was admitted after he developed fever and some age-related ailments.
But hospital sources were issuing statements and updates on his health although he was in a critical condition.
KB began his illustrious career, spanning 45 years, as a scriptwriter for the legendary actor, the late MGR, for his film Deiva Thaai.
In 1965 he made his maiden directorial venture, Neer Kumizhi, which was based on his play of the same name in which he featured the late comedian Nagesh in a stellar role.
The film went on to become a huge hit besides earning him critical acclaim. Apparently, the story, set inside a hospital, is about how a terminally ill patient helps unite two lovers before he dies.
Having written scripts and directed over a 100 movies, KB discovered Sivaji Rao Gaekwad and rechristened him Rajinikanth, in his 1975 movie, Aboorva Raagangal.
He had the uncanny knack of picking up actors with promise in this manner and had said that Rajini would go on to become a phenomenon even before his debut film released.
Later, the relationship between the protégé and mentor continued in films, like Moondru Mudichu, Thillu Mullu and Avargal. His films are usually centred on unusual or complicated interpersonal relationships and social themes.
Balachander received his first National Award for Iru Kodugal, released in 1969. Aboorva Raagangal also fetched him an award for Best Feature Film in Tamil. Later in 1981,
Thaneer Thaneer that dealt with social issues, such as water scarcity and political corruption, fetched him the National Film Award for best screenplay and Best Regional Film. Many of his films, including Achamillai Achamillai and Sindhu Bhairavi got him critical acclaim and National Awards.
In 1987, he was honoured with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian honour. He was bestowed the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest award in cinema, in 2010.
