Chennai: Noted Tamil film cinematographer Priyan passed away on Thursday at 3.30pm after suffering a massive heart attack at his KK Nagar residence in the city. He was 55. Born as Nagendran in Virudhunagar, Priyan started his career as a camera assistant in actor, producer late Balaji’s unit. He later introduced him to late veteran cinematographer and filmmaker Balu Mahendra. He assisted him in films like Moondram Pirai (1982) Malayalam film Olangal (1982), Sadma (1983) and Yatra (1984).
He had also worked Mani Ratnam’s Pagal Nilavu and Nayagan. In 1995, he made his debut as cinematographer with K.S Adhiyaman’s 1995 Tamil film Thotta Chinungi. Priyan was best known for his collaboration with popular director Hari and the duo had worked together in 13 films including Singam series and recently commenced work on Saamy Square, a sequel to 2003 Vikram-starrer Saamy made in 2003. His notable films include Porkaalam, Thenali, Velayudham, Poojai, Jilla among several others.
Upon hearing about sudden death of Priyan, condolences have started pouring from members of the film fraternity. Priyan’s body was taken to his native on Thursday and last rites will be performed Friday at 3 pm. He is survived by wife Kalyani Priyan Nagendran and two daughters Priya Vishwa and Srimathi.
