B. Kannan

Biography

Bhimsingh Kannan, widely known as B. Kannan, was a distinguished Indian cinematographer and occasional actor, celebrated for his profound impact on Tamil cinema. Born on January 10, 1951, in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, he hailed from a family deeply rooted in the film industry. His father, A. Bhimsingh, was a renowned filmmaker, and his brother, B. Lenin, is a respected film editor. Kannan's career spanned nearly four decades, during which he collaborated extensively with director Bharathiraja, earning him the moniker "Bharathirajavin Kangal" (Bharathiraja's Eyes).​

Early Life and Personal Background

Growing up in a cinematic environment, Kannan was naturally inclined towards filmmaking. He was married to Kanchana Kannan, and the couple had two daughters, Madhumathi and Janani.

Cinematic Journey

Kannan's foray into cinematography began in the late 1970s, with his early work including films like Oru Nadigai Natakam Parkiral (1978). However, it was his collaboration with Bharathiraja that truly defined his career. Together, they worked on over 40 films, capturing the essence of rural Tamil Nadu with authenticity and aesthetic brilliance.​

Some of his most acclaimed works include:​

Alaigal Oivathillai (1981)

Mann Vasanai (1983)

Muthal Mariyathai (1985)

Kadalora Kavithaigal (1986)

Karuththamma (1994)

Kadal Pookkal (2001)

Kangalal Kaidhu Sei (2004)​

Beyond Tamil cinema, Kannan also contributed to Malayalam, Telugu, and Hindi films, showcasing his versatility across languages and genres.​

Acting Endeavors

While primarily known for his cinematographic prowess, Kannan also appeared in minor acting roles. Notably, he had roles in Kangalal Kaidhu Sei (2008) and Uliyin Osai (2008).​

Accolades and Recognition

Kannan's exceptional work earned him several accolades:​

Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Cinematographer for Alaigal Oivathillai (1981) and Kangalal Kaidhu Sei (2004).

Shantaram Award for Best Cinematography for Kadal Pookkal (2001).​

Legacy and Demise

B. Kannan passed away on June 13, 2020, at the age of 69, due to heart complications. His demise marked the end of an era in Tamil cinema, but his legacy endures through the visual poetry he crafted on screen. Kannan's work continues to inspire aspiring cinematographers and filmmakers, reflecting the profound impact he had on Indian cinema.