Kochi: Film director I V Sasi, known for his excellent career in Malayalam’s industry, passed away in Chennai on Tuesday. His death came after a prolonged battle with illness. He was 69.  He is survived by wife Seema, son Ani and daughter Anu.

With more than 150 films in his three-decade-long career, I V Sasi is considered one of the legendary filmmakers in Kerala for his unique directorial skills.

Starting his career as an art director for Kaliyalla kalyanam (1968), Sasi made his directorial debut with Utsavam (1975).

He received National Award for Aroodam (1982), besides two other state awards. His projects Devasuram, Aalkootathil Thaniye, Adiyozhukukal, Athirathram went on to become superhits, earning him a cult following. His movies were also instrumental in earning superstardom to Mammootty, with the actor being a part of  I V Sasi’s 35 projects.

Known for technical brilliance and stylish making, I V Sasi’s works brought in the mass to the theatres, earning him the tag of showman of Malayalam cinema. Most of his works skillfully blend artistic elements and commercial values, thereby winning acclaim all over the country.