Chezhiyan : a tribute !

Remembering R. Chezhiyan – A Visionary of Literature and Cinema

SICA deeply mourns the sudden demise of our esteemed member  R. Chezhiyan on July 10th 2026 at chennai.

R. Chezhiyan was a rare creative force whose contributions enriched both Tamil literature and Indian cinema. His journey reflected an unwavering passion for learning, teaching, and creating meaningful art.

He first inspired countless film enthusiasts through his insightful writings. His books on world cinema introduced readers to the language, history, and aesthetics of international filmmaking, making complex cinematic ideas accessible to aspiring filmmakers and cinema lovers alike. His writings on film music further demonstrated his deep understanding of how sound and image together create powerful cinematic experiences. Through numerous articles, essays, and lectures, Chezhiyan nurtured a generation of readers with his thoughtful perspectives on cinema.

His transition from film scholar to filmmaker was equally inspiring. Beginning his career under acclaimed cinematographer P.C. Sreeram, he absorbed the discipline, aesthetics, and visual grammar of cinematography from one of India’s finest masters. He soon established himself as an independent cinematographer, earning recognition for his sensitive visual storytelling, naturalistic imagery, and artistic approach across feature films and independent cinema.

Chezhiyan’s creative vision eventually found its fullest expression in direction. His debut feature To Let became a landmark in contemporary Indian cinema. The film, with its honest portrayal of an ordinary family’s struggle for dignity and shelter, resonated with audiences across the world. To Let was screened and celebrated at numerous international film festivals, winning widespread critical acclaim and several prestigious international awards. The film also received the National Film Award, firmly establishing Chezhiyan as one of India’s most significant contemporary filmmakers.

Throughout his career, Chezhiyan remained committed to meaningful cinema that reflected human values, social realities, and artistic integrity. Whether as an author, journalist, cinematographer, or director, he consistently inspired filmmakers, students, and cinephiles with his knowledge, humility, and uncompromising dedication to the craft.

R. Chezhiyan’s legacy extends far beyond the films he made and the books he wrote. He leaves behind a rich body of work that will continue to educate, inspire, and influence generations of artists and cinema lovers.

His passing is an irreplaceable loss to Indian cinema and Tamil literary culture. His vision, wisdom, and contributions will remain.

Based on available records, here are some of the major awards and recognitions received by R. Chezhiyan:

65th National Film Award – Best Feature Film in Tamil for To Let (Director, Writer & Cinematographer).

To Let won 26 International Awards and received 80+ international festival nominations across the world.

Kolkata International Film Festival – Best Indian Film for To Let.

World Human Rights Silver Award (Indonesia) – To Let.

South Film & Arts Academy Festival (Chile) – Best Dramatic Feature for To Let.

European Cinematography Award (Poland) – To Let.

As a Cinematographer (Paradesi):

Ananda Vikatan Cinema Award – Best Cinematographer.

Edison Award – Best Cinematographer.

BFI London Film Festival Award – Best Cinematography for Paradesi.

SIIMA Award – Nominated for Best Cinematographer (Tamil).

Vijay Award – Nominated for Best Cinematographer.

These achievements reflect Chezhiyan’s remarkable journey as a writer, film critic, cinematographer, and National Award-winning filmmaker, whose work earned both national recognition and international acclaim.

Article by

CJ Rajkumar

Author/ Cinematographer