Telugu film industry mourns the death of K Viswanath

K Viswanath, one of the greatest filmmakers to emerge out of the Telugu industry died, leaving its members in a deep state of shock and sadness. The auteur, who has left an enduring imprint in the world of Indian cinema with his deeply artistic and poignant portrayals of the human condition, has inspired generations of filmmakers to dedicate a life to artistic pursuits selflessly and create art for art’s sake. K Viswanath has also inspired many artists to use cinema as a tool for extolling the traditional way of life while simultaneously challenging its regressive aspects. His work has fans amongst many contemporary filmmakers, who have now taken to social media to express their profound grief at K Viswanath’s passing while genuflecting gratitude at the legacy his cinema has bequeathed to the Telugu film industry.

SS Rajamouli, whose name is synonymous with Telugu cinema worldwide today, rightfully crediting the role of K Viswanath in translating Telugu culture to screen at large, writes, “If anybody across the world asks me to speak about the greatness of Telugu cinema, I will proudly mention the name of K Viswanath. Your signature in Telugu cinema and art will shine brightly forever. We are deeply indebted to you for the lessons you imparted to us on film grammar. 

Ram Gopal Varma, whose work in the 90s and 00s was seminal and clutter breaking in its own right, spoke about his predecessor of the 80s, writing, “His own distinctive visual style and music and even more distinctive characterizations set in a culture he truly respects is what makes K Viswanath a true auteur. I hope he and his protegee Sirivennela will have divine musical interaction in heaven”, referring to the late veteran lyricist Sirivennela Sitharama Sastry, who began his career with K Viswanath’s film Sirivennela (1986) and went on to adopt and incorporate the film’s title into his own name. Sirivennela Sitharama Sastry passed away in December 2021 due to lung cancer.

Director Sreenu Vaitla, who not only adored K Viswanath’s works, but also spoofed Shankarabharanam (1980), one of Viswanath’s biggest films, in his own cult masala entertainer King (2008) to great comedic effect, expresses his condolences at the filmmaker’s passing, writing, “It is an irreparable loss. The legend Viswanath garu has not only entertained with his films but also educated. He was always committed to his values and highlighted our art and culture in his own unique style. His place in Indian film history will always remain special.”

Filmmaker Selvaraghavan, whose iconic 2006 Telugu film Aadavari Maatalaku Ardhale Verule (2007) featured K Viswanath in a prominent acting role, as the grandfather of the film’s female lead Trisha, also expressed his grief, writing “RIP K Viswanath sir. One of India’s finest directors and my biggest inspiration forever. I am fortunate to have worked with him in Aadavari Matalaku Ardhale Verule.”