Malayalam Director Shafi Dies

Kochi, 26 January 2025: Acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker Shafi, renowned for his contributions to the comedy and drama genres, died at Aster Medicity Hospital in Kochi. He had been undergoing treatment following internal bleeding and was in a critical condition. Despite the best efforts of a team of expert doctors, the director succumbed to his illness.

Rasheed MH, famously known as Shafi, was admitted to the hospital on January 16. He underwent emergency brain surgery and was placed on ventilator support, but his condition failed to improve.

Born on February 18, 1968 in Ernakulam, Kerala, Shafi was celebrated for his work in Malayalam cinema, directing numerous blockbuster films such as Pulival Kalyanam (2003), Mayavi (2007), and Marykkundoru Kunjaadu (2010). His iconic films left a lasting impression on the Malayalee audience, with dialogues and scenes frequently referenced in everyday life.

Shafi was instrumental in showcasing actor Mammootty’s versatility in the comedy genre through films like Thommanum Makkalum (2005), Mayavi (2007), and Chattambinadu (2009). Over a career spanning more than two decades, he worked with several leading actors, including Dileep, Jayaram, Jayasurya, Kunchacko Boban, and Navya Nair.

Shafi came from a family deeply rooted in the Malayalam film industry. His elder brother, Rafi, is part of the celebrated writer-director duo Rafi Mecartin, while their uncle was the renowned director Siddique. Shafi’s debut as a director came in 2001 with the comedy-drama One Man Show, which marked the beginning of his illustrious career.

He also briefly ventured into Tamil cinema with Majaa (2005), starring Vikram and Asin, demonstrating his ability to transcend linguistic boundaries.

In addition to filmmaking, Shafi directed stage productions, including the acclaimed Madhuram 18, which toured the US and Canada in 2018.