K. Balachander

Biography:

Kailasam Balachander was a famous filmmaker from India mainly based in Tamil industry. He did his education in zoology. Before he became a director, he worked as a school teacher and wrote plays. His movie journey began when M.G. Ramachandran asked him to write dialogues for “Deiva Thai.” Later, he directed films like “Thamarai Nenjam” and became well-known in Tamil cinema.

His production company, Kavithalaya Productions, made important films like “Muthu,” “Roja,” and “Jathi Malli.” Balachander introduced many actors to Tamil cinema, including Kamal Hassan and Rajinikanth. His films like “Apoorva Raagangal,” “Avargal,” and “Sindhu Bhairavi” explored complex relationships and social issues.

In Hindi, “Ek Duuje Ke Liye” was his successful film, earning him two Filmfare nominations. His Telugu films like “Akali Rajyam” and “Rudraveena” were also highly regarded.

He entered television with shows like “Kai Alavu Manasu” and “Kadhal Pagadai.” Despite success in cinema, he returned to theatre after 40 years with “Pournami.”

In his personal life, he was married to Rajam, and they had three children. He received the Padma Shri in 1987 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his contributions to the arts.

Sadly, K. Balachander passed away on December 23, 2014, after battling a prolonged illness, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema.