Chennai: The Tamil film fraternity is in shock after the sudden death of director Vikram Sugumaran, who died on Monday at the age of 47 due to cardiac arrest in Chennai.
Acclaimed Debut and Career Highlights
Vikram Sugumaran received critical appreciation and admiration with his directorial debut Madha Yaanai Koottam (2013), a gritty rural drama with Kathir, which was appreciated for its realistic storytelling and uncompromising social commentary.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest on Bus Journey
According to reports, Vikram was returning to Chennai from Madurai by bus after pitching a new script to a producer when he suddenly experienced severe chest pain. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, doctors were unable to revive him.
He leaves behind his wife and children, who are grappling with the shock of his sudden passing.
Early Career and Distinct Voice in Tamil Cinema
Starting his career as an assistant to directorial legend Balu Mahendra in the late 1990s, Vikram Sugumaran soon became a voice apart from the rest of Tamil cinema through his gritty and socially oriented films. His last directorial effort was Raavana Kottam (2023), starring Shanthnu Bhagyaraj.
Before his death, he was busy working on a new hope project named Therum Porum.
Industry Betrayal and Writing Credits
During recent interviews, Vikram had expressed openly about being betrayed in the industry but preferred to not disclose the names as it lacked proof.
Interestingly, he was also one of the writers of the hit 2011 film Aadukalam, which featured Dhanush and was well-received by its storytelling and direction by Vetrimaaran.
Tributes from the Film Fraternity
Film fraternity has shown their deepest sympathies. Actor Shanthnu Bhagyaraj recalled him as a “dearest brother” and wrote, “I learned so much from you and will cherish every moment.” Music composer Justin Prabhakaran wrote on Twitter, “A filmmaker who dreamed beyond frames but left us too soon. Gone with countless stories untold.”
A Lasting Legacy in Tamil Cinema
The untimely death of Vikram Sugumaran creates a gap in the history of Tamil cinema. His love for narration and his penchant for presenting thought-provoking stories on celluloid will be sorely missed.
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