Farewell to Legendary Malayalam Film Producer PV Gangadharan

The world of Indian cinema mourns the loss of a stalwart as veteran Malayalam film producer Parayarukandi Vettath Gangadharan bid adieu at the age of 80 in a private hospital, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of Malayalam cinema. The renowned producer, known for his exceptional contributions to the industry, had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments after his admission to the hospital a week ago.

Honouring a Lifetime of Achievement

Born in 1943 to the distinguished lineage of Madhavi Sami and P V Sami, a prominent entrepreneur renowned for founding the KTC Group of Companies, Gangadharan was the younger sibling of P V Chandran, who served as the managing editor of Mathrubhumi. With deep-rooted ties to Mathrubhumi as a director, Gangadharan made his mark in the cinematic realm, where he established himself as a luminary Malayalam film producer.

Gangadharan’s illustrious journey in the film industry unfolded under the banner of Grihalakshmi Films, through which he produced a total of 22 captivating Malayalam films. His extraordinary body of work earned him widespread acclaim, including two National Film Awards and five Kerala State Film Awards. Among his timeless contributions to Malayalam cinema are memorable films such as Angadi (1980), Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha (1989), Kattathe Kilikkoodu (1983), Adhwaytham (1992), Thooval Kottaram (1996), Kochu Kochu Santhoshangal (2000), Achuvinte Amma (2005), and Notebook (2006), among others. Recently, he presented Janaki Jane (2023) as his final cinematic masterpiece to the world.

An Icon of Cinematic Brilliance and Social Impact

Gangadharan’s creative brilliance extended beyond conventional cinematic boundaries, as demonstrated by his impactful contributions to films such as the Nargis Dutt Award-winning Kanakkinavu, renowned for its portrayal of national integration, and the acclaimed Shantham, recognized as the Best Feature Film.

Aside from his remarkable achievements in the film industry, Gangadharan was a pivotal figure in the International Film Producers Association (FIAPF) and held esteemed positions within the film fraternity, including chairman of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation, president of the Film Federation of India, president of the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce, and president of the Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce.

A Legacy Beyond Cinema and Industry

Engaging with societal and political realms, Gangadharan was an active member of the All Indian Congress Committee, lending his voice to crucial matters within the political spectrum. His engagement began during his college days as a former Kerala Students Union activist, reflecting his enduring commitment to various aspects of public life.

Survived by his beloved wife, P V Sherien, and their children, Shenuga Jaythilak, Shegna Vigil, and Sherga Sandeep, who collectively manage the production house S-Cube Films, Gangadharan’s profound influence extends far beyond his cinematic contributions, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of Indian cinema and society.

The commemoration of PV Gangadharan’s extraordinary life will take place at his residence in Azhchavattom, with the public gathering at the Town Hall to pay their respects, before the final rites scheduled for Saturday, signifying the end of an era in the realms of Indian cinema.

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