THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Nayana Suryan (28), a notable associate director of the Malayalam Cinema, has been found dead at her rented residence in Althara near Vazhuthacaud on Sunday. The cause of death can only be found after the full autopsy, said Museum Police. She is the youngest daughter of Dineshan and Sheela of Karunagappally Azheekal Suryan Paramb.

It was Nayana’s birthday on Saturday. She didn’t pick up the calls from her mother on this day. Nayana’s roommate was out of town. Her other friends found her unconscious at the residence. She was rushed to a private hospital but was declared dead. Nayana was a diabetic patient from her birth. Nayana made her debut as an independent director with the movie 'Pakshikalude Manam', a part of an anthology movie named 'Crossroad'. She was the favorite disciple and private secretary of filmmaker Lenin Rajendran. She started her career in the 2011 movie 'Makaramanju' directed by Lenin Rajendran. Nayana later worked with Lenin as an associate for ‘Edavapathi’ and four other documentaries. She has also worked with Kamal ('Utopiayile Rajavu', Celluloid), Dr. Biju ('Akashathinte Niram'), Jeethu Joseph (Memories) and Jenuse Mohamed (100 Days of Love). She has also directed various ad films and stage shows.

Nayana moved to Thiruvananthapuram in 2008 for her career needs. She was preparing to do a documentary on her native Alappad and another independent movie. She has two siblings-Madhu and Praveena.