Popular film director Shafi passes away

KOCHI: Renowned Malayalam filmmaker and screenwriter Shafi (M.H. Rashid) passed away at the age of 57. He breathed his last at 12:25 a.m. while undergoing treatment at Aster Medcity in Ernakulam following a stroke on January 16.

Shafi was on ventilator support and had undergone an emergency brain surgery, but efforts to save him were unsuccessful. Public viewing of his mortal remains will be held today at Kaloor from 10 am. The funeral is scheduled for 4 p.m. Shafi is survived by his wife, Shamila, and daughters, Aleema and Salma.

Shafi entered the film industry in 1990 as an assistant director in the films of Rajasenan and Rafi-Mecartin. He made his directorial debut in 2001 through the film 'One Man Show'. He directed a total of 18 films, including his last release Anandham Paramanandham. His biggest hit was Dileep-starrer Kalyanaraman.

Some of his other blockbuster films are Thommanum Makkalum, Pulival Kalyanam and Mayavi. He also directed the Tamil film Majaa. Shafi was a natural humorist whose talent shone through his work in comedy films, earning him a special place in the hearts of audiences. He was the younger brother of Rafi, one-half of the iconic Rafi-Mecartin filmmaking duo. Shafi was also a close relative of Siddique, part of the legendary Siddique-Lal duo.

Shafi was born in 1968 in Pullepady, Ernakulam. His artistic journey began with mimicry and acting during his early years, and he organized several stage programs, including shows in the United States.