A. K. Lohithadas

Ambazhathil Karunakaran Lohithadas (05 May 1955 – 28 June 2009) was an Indian screenwriter, playwright, director, and producer known for his extensive work in Malayalam cinema.

Lohithadas was known for his rich, detailed, and realistic screenplays. He made his debut as a screenwriter with Thaniyavarthanam (1987). He has written screenplays for 35 films in a 24-year-long career, such as Kireedam (1989), Dasharatham (1989), Sasneham (1990), His Highness Abdullah (1990), Bharatham (1991), Amaram (1991), Aadhaaram (1992), Kamaladalam (1992), Venkalam (1993), Padheyam (1993), Chenkol (1993), Chakoram (1994), Thooval Kottaram (1996), Sallapam (1996), and Veendum Chila Veettukaryangal (1999). He later became a director, and has directed films such as Bhoothakkannadi (1997), Karunyam (1997), Kanmadam (1998), Joker (2000), and Kasthooriman (2003). He died on 29 June 2009 due to a heart attack.

Biography

Early life

Lohithadas (or 'Lohi', as he is often referred to) was born on 05 May 1955 in Chalakudy, Kerala. He showed an initial interest in writing short stories, but failed to make a mark in that genre. He soon moved into Malayalam theatre in 1986 when his debut script was accepted for the stage by the legendary theatre personality Thoppil Bhasi. Bhasi's Communist Party of India (CPI)-backed drama troupe, the highly successful Kerala People's Arts Club (KPAC), produced the play, which led to his winning a state award.