S. Ramachandra
Shivaramaiah Ramachandra Aithal, popularly known as S. Ramachandra, was a National [Film Award for Best Cinematography|National Award-winning] Indian cinematographer. In 2006, he was honoured with Lifetime Contribution to Kannada Cinema Award at the Karnataka State Film Awards. He was recognised as a gifted cinematographer and as a force behind the offbeat films in Kannada cinema.
Career
After securing fifth rank in the Pre-University Course, Ramachandra went to the National Film and Television Institute in Pune to learn Cinematography. Upon returning he worked as the Assistant Cameraman for U.M.N. Sharif, who shot Vamsha Vriksha directed by Girish Karnad and B.V. Karanth. It was during the shooting of Vamsha Vriksha that P.V. Nanjaraja Urs, who identified Ramachandra's talent, asked him to work for his feature film "Sankalpa" which was Ramachandra's first venture as an Independent Cinematographer. He later worked with B.V. Karanth for the Award Winning film Chomana Dudi. He also worked in commercial films with directors like Nagabharana and K.V.Jayaram.S. Ramachandra's work in films directed by Girish Kasaravalli brought him accolades. His association with Girish Kasaravalli began with the National Award-winning film Ghatashradhdha. Later he worked on Akramana, [Mane (film)|Mane], Kraurya, Naayi Neralu, [Hasina (film)|Hasina] and Gulabi Talkies.
Professional
Ramachandra was the President of Karnataka Cinematographer's Association for nearly a decade, where he worked to secure the future of Cinematographers of the Kannada Film IndustryHe was a founding member of Chitrasamuha, a filmmakers' platform for appreciation of cinema aesthetics and he remained an active contributor until his death.
Critical acclaim
Following quotes are about S. Ramachandra and his work.Awards
- 1977: National Film Award for Best Cinematography for Rishya Shringa
- 2006: Lifetime Contribution to Kannada Cinema Award
- Karnataka State Film Award for Best Cinematography
- * 1972–73: Sankalpa
- * 1976–77: Rushya Shringa
- * 1978–79: Grahana
- * 1989–90: '''Mane'''
Death
S. Ramachandra was suffering from cancer. He was admitted to the Bangalore Institute of Oncology where he was pronounced dead on 10 January 2011.Chitra Varsha: Cinematography of Ramachandra, a year long festival of his films was organised by Chitra Samuha and K. V. Subbanna Aptha Samuha in 2011.
At least one film 'Thallana' is dedicated to him.