Gandhimathi Balan, renowned film producer, dies at 66 after prolonged illness

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Gandhimathi Balan, the producer of several classics in Malayalam cinema, passed away here in a private hospital on Wednesday. He was 66 years old. Balan has produced many classics of Malayalam cinema like Panchavadipalam, Pathamudayam, Sukhamo Devi, Nombarathipoovu, Moonnam Pakkam, Ee Thanutha Veluppan Kaalath and many others. Balan has produced and distributed about thirty films. Among these, he has done the most films with the legendary director Padmarajan.

His first movie was 'Ithiri Neram Othiri Karyam'. Balan, one of the rare producers who found success in making films with artistic value, was also present in literary, social and cultural fields.

Balan, who was undergoing treatment for liver ailments for a long time, was admitted to the hospital a week ago. He died today at 12.55 pm after his condition worsened. Relatives have informed that the cremation will take place tomorrow in Thiruvananthapuram.