S.Maruthi Rao: Centenary years!A Luminary of Light and Shade!!

A Luminary of Light and Shade in Indian Cinema

Shelkey Maruthi Rao, an illustrious figure in the realm of Indian cinematography, left an indelible mark on the silver screen with his mastery of light and shade, chiaroscuro, and silhouette techniques. Born on April 25, 1921, in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, Rao’s journey into the world of imagery began as a mere student, carrying his camera to school, a testament to his early fascination with photography. His talent and passion were soon recognized by N. C. Pillai, the then-editor of Flash magazine, who saw in him the potential for greatness in the cinematic universe.

Rao’s cinematic odyssey commenced in 1940 when he embarked on his apprenticeship at Pragajothi Films, under the guidance of renowned cinematographer Mama Shinde. From there, Rao’s trajectory soared, as he seamlessly transitioned from assistant roles to assuming the mantle of main cinematographer in various acclaimed productions. His collaboration with luminaries like Ellis R. Dungan and A. V. Meiyappan further solidified his reputation as a visionary behind the lens.

Throughout his prolific career spanning over six decades, Rao lensed over 59 films, spanning multiple languages including Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Telugu. Not only did he excel in cinematography, but he also ventured into producing television serials and documentaries, showcasing his multifaceted talent and commitment to storytelling.

Beyond his cinematic contributions, Rao’s legacy extends to his pivotal role in founding the Southern India Cinematographers’ Association (SICA), a trade union  that has stood as a beacon of excellence in the industry for over five decades. His genius, characterized by his innovative techniques and unparalleled creativity, continues to inspire and resonate with generations of filmmakers.

As we commemorate the centenary plus years of Shelkey Maruthi Rao, we celebrate not only a luminary of Indian cinema but also a visionary whose brilliance continues to illuminate the cinematic landscape for generations to come.

The chronological list of Kalaimamani S. Maruthi Rao’s career highlights, along with special mentions, organized by year:

1921: Born in Tanjore, Tamil Nadu
1939-40: Joined Pragajyothi Films as an Apprentice
1941-42: Worked at Vel Pictures, Madras, as a paid camera assistant
1946: Joined Ganesh Pictures as Operative Cameraman
1949: Joined AVM Studios, Madras, as Cameraman “Oru Iravu” (Tamil film)
1952: “Parasakthi” (Tamil film) – marked the debut of legendary Shivaji Ganesan
1952: “Parasakthi” (Telugu film)
1953: “Bedara Kannappa” (Kannada film) – marked the debut of Dr. Rajkumar
1953: “Kalahasthi Mahatyam” (Telugu film)
1954: “Shiv Bhaktha” (Hindi film)
1954: “Andanaal” (Tamil film) – a film without songs
1956: “Kula Deivam” (Tamil film) – Silver Jubilee hit
1956: “Hum Panchi Ek Dal Ke” (Hindi film) – President Gold Medal winner
1957: “Bhabhi” (Hindi film) – Golden Jubilee hit
1957: “Bharkha” (Hindi film)
1958: “Ungal Nanban Police” – Tamil Outstanding Documentary
1959: “Mamiyar Mechiya Marumagal” (Tamil film)
1960: “Deiva Piravi” (Tamil film) – Central Award
1960: “Bindya” (Hindi film)
1960: “Tilakam” (Tamil film)
1961: “Shaadhi” (Hindi film)
1961: “Chendur” (Hindi film)
1962: “Annai” (Tamil film)
1962: “Mera Kanoon Kiya” (Hindi film)
1963: “Kungumam” (Tamil film)
1964: “Vaazhkai Vaazhuvatharke” (Tamil film)
1964: “Server Sundaram” (Tamil film)
1965: “Kulandhaiyum Deivamum” (Tamil film)
1965: “Major Chandrakanth” (Tamil film)
1966: “Anbe Vaa” (First Eastman color film from AVM)
1966: “Mein Sundar Hoon” (Hindi film)
1966: “Man Mauji” (Hindi film)
1967: “Adhe Kangal” (Tamil film)
1967: “Ave Kallu” (Telugu film)
1968: “Do Kaliyan” (Hindi film)
1968: “Annathai Anandan” (Tamil film)
1970: “Enga Mama” (Tamil film)
1970: “Engal Thangam” (Tamil film)
1971: “Puthiya Vazhkai” (Tamil film)
1971: “Iddaru Ammayilu” (Telugu film) – Color
1971: “Irulum Oliyum” (Tamil film) – Color
1971: “Ranga Rattinam” (Tamil film)
1973: “Pon Oonjal” (Tamil film)
1974: “Pathu Maatha Bandham” (Tamil film) – Color
1974: “Kaliyuga Kannan”
1975: “Karootikannan”
1975: “Nonu” (Telugu film)
1975: “Pooja” (Telugu film)
1976: “Jaie Ko Taisa” (Hindi film) – Color
1976: “Vaazhnthu Kaattugiren” (Tamil film)
1976: “Shaandaar” (Hindi film) – Color
1976: “Vaazhvum Pakkam” (Tamil film)
1978: “Chakravarthy” (Tamil film)
1978: “Paduvaralli Pandavaru” (Kannada film)
1979: “Dharma Serai” (Kannada film)
1980: “Vadai Malai” (cinematography & direction won state award)
1982: “Ranganayaki” (first cinemascope in Kannada)
1983: “Runa Mukthalu” (Kannada film)
1986: “Bal Onthu Viyalee” (Kannada film)
1986: “Mathura Bhantavya” (Kannada film)
1987: “Thaye Neye Thunai” (Tamil film)
1987: “Kathal Enbathu Ethuvarai” (Tamil film)
1989: “Masanadha Uoovu” (Kannada film) – State Award Winner for Best Cinematography
1990: “Siraiyil Pootha Chinna Malar” (Tamil film) – His last feature film

Television Works:

– *Anthapuram* (Historical) [Tamil]: Shelkey Maruthi Rao’s foray into television included the historical drama “Anthapuram” in Tamil, showcasing his versatility in visual storytelling beyond the realm of cinema.

– *Mariyathai Raman* [Tamil]: His contributions extended to the Tamil television landscape with “Mariyathai Raman,” further solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in both film and television industries.

– *Anbulla Amma* [Tamil]: Rao’s creative endeavors in television encompassed projects like “Anbulla Amma,” demonstrating his ability to capture the intricacies of human emotions and relationships on the small screen.

– *Arugampul* (Telefilm for Madras Doordarshan): involvement in telefilms such as “Arugampul” for Madras Doordarshan highlighted his commitment to exploring diverse narrative formats and visual styles in television production.

– *Windows* (Telefilm for Madras Doordarshan): Through projects like “Windows,” Maruthi Rao showcased his adeptness at crafting compelling narratives and evocative visuals, contributing to the rich tapestry of televised storytelling.

– *Working Woman* (“Sumai Thangical”) – Tamil, Sub-titled in English for National Hook-up: Rao’s documentary “Working Woman” underscored his dedication to addressing social issues through the medium of television, garnering national attention for its insightful portrayal of women’s empowerment.

– *Chinna Sambu* (Tamil serial for Channel 1): Rao’s involvement in serials like “Chinna Sambu”

– *Nijamana Uyarangal* (Tamil Serial): Rao’s contributions extended to serials like “Nijamana Uyarangal,” reflecting his commitment to depicting authentic narratives and capturing the essence of Tamil culture and society.

– *Documentary on Social Forestry: *Kadu Sollum Kathaigal*Maruthi Rao’s documentary on social forestry demonstrated his dedication to raising awareness about environmental issues and fostering a sense of ecological responsibility among viewers.

– T.V. Spots for Tamil Nadu Films Division: his involvement in television spots for the Tamil Nadu Films Division highlighted his collaboration with governmental bodies in promoting cinema and cultural initiatives through the medium of television.

– *Documentary on Aquaculture*: Rao’s documentary on aquaculture exemplified his versatility as a filmmaker, delving into scientific subjects while maintaining a captivating narrative style that engaged audiences.

Other Honors 

– *Madras Amateur Photographic Society (Member since 1937)*: Rao’s longstanding association with the Madras Amateur Photographic Society underscored his passion for photography and visual storytelling, laying the foundation for his illustrious career in cinematography and television production.

Honored Country Visits 

*Leipzig Fair, East Germany
*ORWO Factory, East Germany (Government Guest)
*Invitation from M/s. Kodak
*Harrow Factory (Eastman Film Factory), London, photographed with newly introduced Eastman Colour High-Speed Negative at their factory studio
*Arthur Rank Studio, London
*Cinecita Studios, Technicolor Corporation, Rome
* Paris, Geneva, Hamburg, Berlin (West Germany), Frankfurt, Cairo, Beirut

Veteran cinematographer Ajayan Vincent reminisced about S. Maruthi Rao serving as a jury member for his State award-winning film “Paadatha Thenikal.” Additionally, S. Maruthi Rao chaired the selection committee for the Adyar Film Institute in 1986.

Legendary producer AVM. Kumaran complimented S. Maruthi Rao in a recent meeting about his technical skill of using lighting mask for filming Double action sequence.

Article by

CJ Rajkumar

Author/Cinematographer