The world of Malayalam cinema and politics bid farewell to a distinguished luminary on the morning of October 13, as P.V. Gangadharan, noted film producer and director of the Mathrubhumi group of publications, passed away in Kozhikode at the age of 80. Mr. Gangadharan’s life was characterized by his significant impact on both the realms of film and political engagement, leaving an indelible mark.
As an active member of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC), Mr. Gangadharan ventured into the political arena and contested in the Kerala Legislative Assembly elections from the Kozhikode North constituency in 2011.
Born in 1943 to P.V. Sami, the founder of the KTC group of companies, and Madhavi Sami, Mr. Gangadharan hailed from a family of notable figures. His elder brother, P.V. Chandran, held the position of managing editor at Mathrubhumi. He is survived by his wife, Sherin, and daughters Shenuga, Shegna, and Sherga. The funeral has been scheduled for the evening of October 14.
Mr. Gangadharan’s contributions to Malayalam cinema through Grihalakshmi productions were truly transformative. He played a pivotal role in the creation of numerous historic films, some of which earned State and national awards. His journey in the world of cinema began with the 1977 film “Sujatha” and was followed by a string of successful hits, including “Manassa Vacha Karmana,” “Angadi,” “Ahimsa,” “Chiriyo Chiri,” “Kattathe Kilikkodu,” “Vartha,” “Adwaitham,” and “Ekalavyan.” Notably, his work extended to award-winning films like “Kanakkinavu” (recipient of the Nargis Dutt Award for National Integration in 1997), “Santham” (awarded the national award for best film in 2000), “Oru Vadakkan Veeragadha,” “Veendum Chila Veettu Karyanagal,” “Achuvinte Amma,” and “Notebook” (earning State awards in various categories).
In his later endeavors, Mr. Gangadharan collaborated with S Cube films, a production company founded by his daughters, for his latest venture, “Janaki Jaane.” Beyond his contributions to the film industry, he held prominent positions in various film-related organizations, including the vice-presidency of the Paris-based International Federation of Film Producers’ Associations (FIAPF), chairmanship of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation, presidency of the Kerala Film Chamber, and the presidency of the Film Federation of India.
Mr. Gangadharan’s influence extended beyond the realm of cinema. He served as the president of the Malabar Chamber of Commerce three times and was actively involved in various ventures of the KTC group, including the P.V. Sami Foundation and PVS Hospital. His life and work left an indelible imprint on the worlds of film, politics, and community service.