Renowned Malayalam film producer Gandhimathi Balan dies at 66
Gandhimathi Balan, a celebrated producer in the Malayalam film industry, passed away on Wednesday in Thiruvananthapuram at the age of 66. Per reports, he was under medical care at a private hospital when he breathed his last. No cause of death was revealed. Known for his support of innovative cinema, Balan had strong connections with many respected Malayalam filmmakers from the '80s such as KG George, Joshiy, and J Sasikumar. May he rest in peace.
Balan's significant contributions to Malayalam cinema
Balan's production company, Gandhimathi Films, was instrumental in producing and distributing numerous Malayalam movies acclaimed for their artistic and aesthetic merit. His portfolio boasts iconic films like Panchavadi Palam, Sukhamo Devi, Moonnam Pakkam, Nombarathi Poovu, Ee Thanutha Veluppan Kalathu, Pathamudayam, and Ithiri Neram Othiri Karyam. Further, he distributed seminal films like Adaminte Vaariyellu, Irakal, Thoovanathumbikal, Malootty, and Manivathoorile Aayiram Sivarathrikal.
Balan's entrepreneurial venture and social influence
In addition to his cinematic achievements, Balan founded a start-up named Alibi, under the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), that specialized in cyber forensics and defense solutions. Located in Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram, Alibi was established to fight movie piracy among other cyber forensic activities. Balan was also a prominent cultural and social figure who served on various government bodies.
Balan's role in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists
As reported by Asianet News, Balan played a key role in establishing the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (A.M.M.A) and organized numerous high-profile events under the A.M.M.A Show banner. Operating under the name "Events Gandhimati," Balan organized numerous events, notably serving as the chief organizer for the 2015 National Games. Additionally, he held the position of Vice Chairman at Chalachitra Academy, Kerala. The producer also owned the Dhanya-Remya theaters in Thiruvananthapuram.
A fascinating tidbit about Balan's name
A fascinating tidbit about Balan lies in his name Gandhimathi. Many might not know that the name "Gandhimathi" was given to Balan's mother by Mahatma Gandhi, which he incorporated into his own name, eventually making it a renowned brand. Per reports, the producer is survived by his wife Anitha Balan, and two children, Sowmya Balan and Anantha Padmanabhan.