Noted Tamil cinematographer Priyan died on Thursday after a cardiac arrest at his residence here. He was 53. Mr. Priyan started his career as an assistant in the camera unit of actor producer K. Balaji and worked with cinematographer-director Balu Mahendra in many films.
He also worked with cinematographer-director Rajiv Menon before making his debut as cinematographer in Thotta Chinungi in 1995.
Born as Nagendran in Virudhunagar, he adopted the screen name ‘Priyan’ after Porkalam, which was directed by Cheran in 1997. He worked with popular film-makers for Thenali, Velayudham, Poojai and Arul.
Mr. Priyan, known for his collaboration with director Hari, has done nearly 13 films with him. Rahim Babu, his co-cameraman, said, “He was about to start shooting for Saamy Square, a sequel to Saamy that starred actor Vikram, from November 19. This would have been his 14th film with director Hari.”
Mr. Priyan had worked as cinematographer for nearly 30 films. Condolences poured in on social media expressing shock over the sudden demise of the ace cinematographer.
Mr. Priyan’s body would be taken to his native place in Virudhunagar for the last rites.
He is survived by wife and two daughters.