Balram was battling ill health for some time.
Balram was known for his ability to transform classical works into modern cinematic masterpieces.
Famous screenwriter and novelist Balram Mattannur has passed away at the age of 62. Balram had been battling ill health and had been undergoing treatment for some time. He leaves behind his wife KN Soumya and daughter Gayathri. His cremation ceremony took place at 2 pm on Thursday (April 18) at the Pulluppi Municipality Crematorium. His impressive cinematic and literary work leaves a lasting impression in the world of storytelling. Balram was known for his exceptional skills as a screenwriter and his ability to transform classical works into modern cinematic masterpieces. His best known works include the critically acclaimed film Kaliyattam, an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello, set against the backdrop of Kerala’s traditional art form, Theyyam. Directed by Jayaraj, the film showcased Balram’s deep understanding of Theyyam, rooted in his childhood experiences.
His tale as a screenwriter also extended to Karmayogi, directed by VK Prakash, a reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet in the context of Kerala. The film showcased Balram’s versatility and talent for creating thought-provoking narratives.
Apart from his contributions to film, Balram was also a prolific writer, writing notable books like Muyal Gramam, Ravi Bhagavan and Balan. His literary works are further proof of his deep insight into human emotions and relationships, which resonated with readers and critics alike.
Balram’s noted screenplays also include Samavakyam, Anyalokam, Pithavinum Puthranum Parishudhathmavinum. In 2021, he wrote the screenplay and dialogues for the film Aquarium, directed by T Deepesh.
The books authored by him include Muyal Gramam, Ravi Bhaghavan, Kattiloode Nattiloode (Children’s Literature), Balan (Memoirs), Pavappetta Kadha, Jeevitham Poonkaavanam (Miscellaneous), Anantham (Experimental Work) and Kashi (Novel). He is survived by his wife KN Soumya, a native of Narath, and his daughter Gayathri Balram. His siblings are Jayaram, Shailaja, Bhargavaram and Latheesh.
