Venu Nagavally was one of the most prominent Writers’, Directors’ and actors’ that the Malayalam Cinema industry had seen. Venu had acted in nearly 50 films, and directed hits including
Lal Salam
, Sukhamo Devi, Sarvakalashal and Aye Auto.
Born in Ramankary, Thiru-Kochi on the 16th of April, 1949 to parents Nagavally R.S Kurup, and Rajamma, Venu was introduced to literary works early in his childhood through his father, a noted play writer. He completed his education from the Government Model Boys Higher Secondary School, Trivandrum. He then pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Politics, with a Diploma in Journalism from the University College, Trivandrum.
He began his career as a Radio Announcer for Aakasavani, followed by a musical debut for the movie Chottanikkara Amma. However, he gained prominence only after his role in the movie Ulkkadal, which boosted his career. Among his noted movies are Pakshe, Shalini Ente Koottukari, Meenamasathile Sooryan, and Chillu.
His directorial debut was Sukhamo Devi (1986), oft described by himself as his own tragic love story. His directorial skills were soon put to good use, with the production of super hits including Lal Salam, Aayirappara, Rakthasaakshikal, Aey Auto, and Zindabad among others. Some of his movies revolved around the lives of the early communist leaders in Kerala, and the others, including Sarvakalashala, Aey Auto and Sukhamo Devi catapulted Mohanlal to the superstar status. His debut as a script writer began with Ee Ganam Marakkumo.
While most of his style was that of a practical approach, there was a strain of leanings to the left, with movies like Lal Salam, where he provided an introspective look into the communist party, its rise and fall, with perspective being obtained by observing and dealing with them; the cracks in political movements, its hopes, and its subsequent degeneration created by it in human relationship.
He also sang for different movies, with popular songs rendered for movies such as Ente Ammu, Ninte Thulasi, Chillu, Oru Painkilikatha, Avarude Chakki.
Venu Nagavally died on the 9th of September 2010, at Thriuvananthapuram, and is survived by his wife Meera, and son Vivek.
Kurup Family Tree (Infographic Family Tree)