Kamal

Biography

Kamal, born Kamaluddin Mohammed Majeed on 28 November 1957 in Kodungallur, Kerala, is an Indian film director, screenwriter and producer who works primarily in Malayalam cinema.

He began his film career as a writer with Thrasam (1981), directed by Padiyan, and also worked as an associate director before making his directorial debut with Mizhineerppovukal (1986). He went on to direct more than 40 films during a career spanning several decades.

Some of his notable films include Unnikale Oru Katha Parayam (1987), Kakkothi Kaavile Appoppan Thaadikal (1988), Ulladakkam (1991), Mazhayethum Munpe (1995), Niram (1999), Madhuranombarakattu (2000), Meghamalhar (2001), Nammal (2002), Perumazhakkalam (2004), Karutha Pakshikal (2006), Gaddama (2011), Celluloid (2013) and Aami (2018).

Kamal is particularly acclaimed for Celluloid (2013), a biographical film about J. C. Daniel, regarded as the father of Malayalam cinema. The film was written, directed and co-produced by Kamal and received seven Kerala State Film Awards. He later directed Aami (2018), a biographical film about poet and writer Kamala Das, starring Manju Warrier.

He has received several honours for his filmmaking, including the Kerala State Film Award for Best Director for Ulladakkam and recognition for films such as Mazhayethum Munpe, Meghamalhar, Perumazhakkalam and Celluloid. He has also served as chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and held important positions in Malayalam film organizations.

Kamal is also the father of filmmaker Jenuse Mohamed, who made his directorial debut with 100 Days of Love (2015).