“Growing up in Nammakal, I always dreamed of joining a good college, but I wasn’t sure which path to take. I tool a Computer Technology course at PSG College. While many were drawn to coding and computers, I found my passion lay elsewhere – in the captivating world of cinematography and films.

During my college days in Coimbatore, I delved into photography, realizing that I wasn’t cut out for the conventional 9 to 5 job. I craved adventure and creativity, longing for a life beyond the confines of a desk.

After completing my degree, I pursued a course in cinematography, supported by my understanding parents. Despite facing unemployment for a couple of years, I persevered, taking on small projects and freelancing gigs to sustain myself.

My breakthrough came when I landed a role as an assistant cinematographer in a Telugu film, which opened doors for me in the Tamil industry. Working on projects like ‘Queen’ and collaborating with renowned filmmakers fueled my passion and honed my skills. By 2019, I found myself on the sets of prominent films directed by Gautam Vasudevan Menon sir and experiences working with cinematographer, S.R.Kadhir Sir. The experience was invaluable, but the creative itch to tell my own stories grew stronger.

Coming from a non-filmy background, I had no connections, no one to open doors. Every day was a battle against the fear of missing out, the sinking feeling when doors remained closed. Along this journey, my best friend, Kanimozhi, stood by me, offering relentless support throughout the choices that I made. She was the one who guided me whenever I was stuck on deciding the path. Eventually, she became my wife.

There were times when I used to wait for one of the prominent personalities in the film industry for days and weeks in front of his office and places, not to bother him, but to talk to him and share my work. Since the cine industry is an open hall, anybody can come in, but it is very very challenging to keep up a place and work on better projects effectively with great personalities; only then can one learn and grow. This is a craft, an art that not everyone will get an appreciation for.

With time and experience, I gained the confidence to step into the role of a cinematographer, eventually joining forces with Greenroom for commercial projects.

There will be hurdles, moments of doubt, and doors that slam shut. But remember, the most important ingredient is you: your passion, your belief, your dedication. Take the leap, embrace the unknown, and tell your story, one frame at a time. You might just surprise yourself.

My journal to making more films continues. The Art continues…”