Lohithadas Biography

Ambazhathil Karunakaran Lohithadas (A. K. Lohithadas) (10 May 1955 – 28 June 2009) was a prolific Indian screenwriter, director, and producer in Malayalam cinema, known for his rich, detailed, and realistic screenplays

Early life

Lohithadas (or 'Lohi', as he is often referred to) was born on May 10, 1955 in Chalakudy, Kerala. He showed an initial interest in writing short stories, but failed to make a mark in that genre. He soon moved into Malayalam theater in 1986 when his debut script was accepted for the stage by the legendary theater personality Thoppil Bhasi. Bhasi's Communist Party of India (CPI)-backed drama troupe, the highly successful Kerala People's Arts Club (KPAC), produced the play, which led to his winning a state award.

Career

Fresh with the play's commercial and critical success, Lohithadas moved to Malayalam Cinema by writing for director Sibi Malayil. His first movie screenplay Thaniavarthanam was directed by Malayil and became a success. Together, Sibi Malayil and Lohithadas would later produce several memorable Malayalam movies. His screenplay works for Sibi Malayil are Thaniyavarthanam (1987), Kireedam (1989), His Highness Abhdullah (1990), Bharatham (1990), Kamaladalam (1992), and Chenkol (1993). Sasneham (1990). Other works include Veendum Chila Veetukaryangal (1999) for Sathyan Anthikkad and Amaram (1991) for Bharathan. He later became a filmmaker and made works such as Boothakannadi (1997), Karunyam (1997), Kanmadam (1998), Arayannangalude Veedu (2000), Joker (2000), Kasthooriman (2003) (which he himself produced), and Nivedyam (2007). Most of his works were critically and commercially successful. His works were recognized from his very first venture Thaniyavarthanam, which brought him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story.

Death

In the morning of June 29, 2009, he experienced chest pains and uneasiness at his home at Aluva near Ernakulam and was immediately taken to the Lisy Hospital, Kaloor, Ernakulam, where he was declared dead from a heart attack at 10:50