Chezhiyan is an Indian cinematographer, film director, and writer known for his work in Tamil cinema. He began his career in the mid-2000s and has earned recognition for his naturalistic visual style and emotionally grounded storytelling. Over time, he has established himself as a filmmaker who combines strong artistic sensibilities with socially relevant themes, making him an important figure in contemporary Tamil filmmaking.
Chezhiyan was born in Sivaganga district in Tamil Nadu, India, into a family of primary school teachers. His upbringing played a significant role in shaping his artistic interests. His father was inclined toward visual arts such as drawing and clay modeling, while his mother was known for storytelling and singing. These influences nurtured his early passion for creativity. Although he pursued a diploma in civil engineering at Alagappa Chettiar College, his deep interest in photography and visual arts eventually led him toward a career in cinema.
He entered the film industry as an apprentice under renowned cinematographer P. C. Sreeram, which provided him with a strong technical and artistic foundation. Initially, he worked as an assistant director in the film Thambi (2006), but soon transitioned into cinematography. His breakthrough came with Kalloori (2007), where his realistic portrayal of characters and environments received critical acclaim and marked him as a promising talent.
As a cinematographer, Chezhiyan worked on several notable films that strengthened his reputation. His work in films such as Thenmerku Paruvakaatru, Paradesi (2013), and Joker (2016) showcased his ability to capture raw human emotions through visual storytelling. His cinematography is characterized by the use of natural lighting, minimal artificial enhancement, and a strong emphasis on realism. His work in Paradesi gained international recognition, including honors at global film festivals, highlighting his global appeal.
Chezhiyan later transitioned into directing, making his debut with the film To Let (2017). The film portrays the struggles of a lower-middle-class family searching for a house in an urban environment, reflecting real-life socio-economic challenges. The film was widely appreciated for its simplicity, authenticity, and emotional depth, and it won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil. This marked an important milestone in his career, establishing him not just as a cinematographer but also as a powerful storyteller.
In addition to filmmaking, Chezhiyan has contributed to literature and documentary filmmaking. He won the Katha Award in 2004 for his short story Harmoniam and has written a Tamil series titled “Ulaga Cinema,” which explores world cinema. He has also directed documentaries, including one on A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and another on writer Jayakanthan. These works reflect his broader interest in storytelling beyond mainstream cinema.
Overall, Chezhiyan is regarded as a filmmaker who brings together visual realism, literary depth, and social awareness. His journey from cinematographer to director highlights his versatility and commitment to meaningful cinema. Through his films and writings, he continues to contribute significantly to the evolution of modern Tamil cinema.
Filmography
Feature Films
| 2007 | Kalloori | Cinematographer |
| 2010 | Rettaisuzhi, Magizhchi | Cinematographer |
| 2010 | Thenmerku Paruvakaatru | Cinematographer |
| 2013 | Paradesi | Cinematographer |
| 2016 | Tharai Thappattai | Cinematographer |
| 2016 | Sawaari | Cinematographer |
| 2016 | Joker | Cinematographer |
| 2019 | To Let | Director & Cinematographer |
| 2022 | Kondraal Paavam | Cinematographer |
| 2026 | Ajayan Balavin Mylanji | Cinematographer |
Short Films & Documentaries
Thiruvizha (2002)
A Little Dream (2008)
Ellaigalai Vistharitha Ezhuthu Kalaignan (2011)
Awards and Recognitions
| Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Katha Award | Short Story Writing | Harmoniam | Won |
| 2013 | BFI London Film Festival | Best Cinematography | Paradesi | Won |
| 2013 | Norway Tamil Film Festival Award | Best Cinematographer | Paradesi | Won |
| 2013 | Vijay Awards | Best Cinematographer | Paradesi | Nominated |
| 2019 | National Film Awards (India) | Best Feature Film in Tamil | To Let (2017) | Won |