Filmmaker K Viswanath passes away

Filmmaker-actor K Viswanath passed away in a private hospital in Hyderabad on Thursday due to age-related issues, reports Indian Express.

In a career spanning six decades, the director touched upon themes like the caste system, disability, untouchability, gender discrimination, dowry and socio-economic challenges in his movies. Some of his popular films include Chelleli Kapuram, Kalam Marindi, Sarada, O Seeta Katha Jeevana Jyothi, Siri Siri Muvva, Sankarabharanam, Saptapadi, Sagara Sangamamm, Swathi Muthyam, Sruthilayalu, Swarnakamalam, Sutradharulu, Aapadbhandhuvudu, Swati Kiranam, Subha Sankalpam, Swarabhishekam, Sargam, Kaamchor, Shubh Kaamna, Eeshwar and Dhanwaan. His movie Swathi Muthyam was even picked as India’s official entry for the Oscars in 1986. He also worked with leading actors from across film industries including Kamal Haasan, Jayaprada, Rishi Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Vanisri and Chiranjeevi among others.

Viswanath also donned the greasepaint for Subha Sankalpam, Vajram, Kalisundam Raa, Narasimha Naidu, Seema Simham, Nuvv Leka Nenu Lenu, Santhosham, Lahiri Lahiri Lahirilo, Tagore, Yaaradi Nee Mohini, Rajapattai, Lingaa, and Uttama Villain.

K Viswanath was the 48th recipient of the Dadasaheb Phalke award. He won five National Film Awards. Viswanath was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1992.

Viswanath is survived by his wife and four children.