KOCHI: Director Siddique, who made Malayalees laugh, has bid farewell to the world. He made films that will forever be remembered by Malayalees and the film industry. Have you noticed the names of Siddique movies? The movies often have an English title related to the content of the movie. Do you know the reason behind this?

Siddique and Lal, who joined Faasil as assistant directors, made their first independent film in 1989. They decided to name the movie in Malayalam- "Nomparangale Sull Sull". The story of the film was written for an ensemble cast including Mohanlal. However, Fazil told them to make their first film with two less busy stars. The disciples obeyed their mentor and Mukesh and Saikumar were cast.

However, there was a feeling that the name 'Nomparangale Sull Sull' was not suitable for the movie. Both sought Fazil's advice. Fazil titled the movie, 'Ramji Rao Speaking'. At exactly one and a quarter hours into the film, the villain played by Vijayaraghavan solemnly says: "My name is Ram, Ramji Rao.... Ramjirao speaking...".

That was the beginning. After Ramji Rao Speaking became a super hit, Siddique-Lal gave English titles to all their films, In Harihar Nagar, Godfather, and Vietnam Colony. Siddique's films as director, writer and producer like Kabuliwala, Friends, Hitler, and Chronic Bachelor have English titles. The list didn't end there either. Bodyguard, Ladies and Gentlemen, Bhaskar the Rascal, King Liar, Big Brother, Siddique continued to name his films in English.