Tamil director-cinematographer KV Anand died on Friday in Chennai after a heart attack. He was 54.
Anand started his career as a photojournalist in newspapers and magazines, and subsequently moved to cinematography by assisting renowned cinematographer PC Sreeram.
He debuted as cinematographer in 1994 with Malayalam movie Thenmavin Kombath for which he won the National Film Award for Best Cinematography. He went on to work in multiple south Indian films like Mudhalvan, Minnaram, Chandralekha, Nayak and Sivaji.
In 2005, he turned director with his debut film Kana Kandaen and later went on to direct Ayan, with Suriya in the lead role. He also directed films like Ko, Maattrraan and Kavan, and his last film was Kaappaan featuring Suriya and Mohanlal.
Anand is the founding member of the Indian Society of Cinematographers (ISC).
Members of the film industry paid tribute to the filmmaker on social media. "Just woke up to this sad news that Dir KV Anand garu is no more. Wonderful cameraman, brilliant director and very nice gentleman . Sir you will always be remember and missed . Condolences to the near, dear and family. Rest in Peace Sir," tweeted Allu Arjun.
Mohanlal tweeted: “Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. K.V. Anand sir you will be missed forever. Prayers for the departed soul.”