'Kadhal Kadhai' director Velu Prabhakaran passes away at 68 - Read more

Veteran Tamil filmmaker, cinematographer, and actor Velu Prabhakaran passed away in Chennai in the early hours of Friday, July 18, at the age of 68.According to India Today, the renowned director had been undergoing treatment for a prolonged illness and suffered a fatal heart attack while admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a private hospital.

According to the sources, Velu Prabhakaran's mortal remains will be kept at his residence in Valasaravakkam, Chennai, for public homage from Saturday evening (July 19) to Sunday afternoon (July 20). His final rites will be held later that day at the Porur crematorium. It will be done in the presence of close friends and family.

A life in frames: From cinematographer to controversial auteur

Velu began his journey in the world of cinema as a cinematographer and later transitioned into directing.

His debut directorial venture was 'Nalaya Manithan' which was released in the year 1989. The movie had its sequel which was titled 'Adhisaya Manithan' (1990).Though he faced setbacks with films like 'Asuran' and 'Rajali', Velu reinvented himself by venturing into action-packed and socially provocative storytelling in the late '90s and early 2000s.

'Kadhal Kadhai' success

His most talked-about work remains 'Kadhal Kadhai' (originally titled 'Kadhal Arangam'), a film that courted controversy for its depiction of caste, sexuality, and social taboos.

Starring newcomers Preethi Rangayani and Shirley Das, the film faced stiff opposition from the Censor Board before eventually being released with cuts and a new title.

Personal life: A quiet man who courted bold choices

Velu was previously married to actor-director Jayadevi. Years after their separation, he surprised many when he remarried at 60, tying the knot with actress Shirley Das—his Kadhal Kadhai heroine. Tamil film industry has indeed lost a gem with the demise of Velu Prabhakaran who has made several cinematic contributions.