Renowned Malayalam film editor Nishadh Yusuf, aged 43, was found dead at his residence in Pampally Nagar on Wednesday. Police have not confirmed the cause of death, and investigations are ongoing, with no official statements released so far. But a few of the reports suggest that a suicide is suspected.
Yusuf’s passing comes just days before the release of Kanguva, a highly anticipated pan-Indian film starring Suriya and Bobby Deol. Yusuf had recently shared photos from the film’s promotions, a project he considered among his most significant. He was also working on the upcoming Mammootty starrer Bazooka, directed by newcomer Deeno Dennis.
The Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) Directors’ Union expressed their condolences on social media, describing Yusuf as a “key figure” in the evolution of modern Malayalam cinema and expressing deep grief at the loss. Yusuf’s career was marked by award-winning work, including the 2022 Kerala State Film Award for Best Editing for Thallumaala and a 2023 Critics’ Choice Film Award. His notable contributions included Unda, Operation Java, Saudi Vellakka, and Chaver.
Many in the industry have come forward to pay tribute to Yusuf, remembering his impact on Malayalam cinema, and his overall legacy as well which now pans out across other languages of cinema as well.
May his soul rest in peace.