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{{Short description|Indian filmmaker}}
{{Short description|Indian filmmaker (born 1957)}}
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{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name               = Priyadarshan
| name = Priyadarshan
| image             = Priyadarshan at a press conference for ‘Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal’ (cropped).jpg
| image = Priyadarshan at a press conference for ‘Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal’ (cropped).jpg
| caption           = Priyadarshan in 2012
| caption = Priyadarshan at a press conference for ''Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal''
| birth_name         =  
| birth_name = Priyadarshan Soman Nair
| birth_date         = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|1957|01|30|}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|1957|01|30}}
| birth_place       = [[Thiruvananthapuram]], [[Kerala]], India
| birth_place = [[Thiruvananthapuram]], [[Kerala]], India
| alma_mater        =
| occupation = {{hlist|Film director|screenwriter}}
| occupation         = {{hlist|Film director|screenwriter}}
| years_active = 1982–present
| years_active       = 1982–present
| works = [[Priyadarshan filmography|Full list]]
| spouse             = {{marriage|[[Lissy (Malayalam actress)|Lissy Lakshmi]]|1990|2016|reason=divorced}}
| spouse = {{marriage|[[Lissy (Malayalam actress)|Lissy]]|1990|2016|reason=divorced}}
| children           = 2; including [[Kalyani Priyadarshan]]
| partner            = [[Lissy (Malayalam actress)|Lissy]]<br>(2026-present)
| parents           =  
| children = 2; including [[Kalyani Priyadarshan|Kalyani]]
| honours           =  
| parents =  
| website           =  
| honours =
| website =
}}
}}


'''Priyadarshan''' (born 30 January 1957)<ref name="birthday">{{Cite web|date=30 January 2018|title=Happy Birthday Priyadarshan: Mohanlal, Riteish Deshmukh and others wish Nimir director| url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/happy-birthday-priyadarshan-5044749/|access-date=2 December 2021|website=The Indian Express}}</ref> is an Indian film director and screenwriter who predominantly works in [[Malayalam]] and [[Hindi]] cinema. He was one of the first directors in India to introduce rich [[color grading]], clear sound and quality dubbing through his early Malayalam films.
'''Priyadarshan''' '''Soman Nair''' (born 30 January 1957)<ref name="birthday">{{Cite web|date=30 January 2018|title=Happy Birthday Priyadarshan: Mohanlal, Riteish Deshmukh, and others wish Nimir director|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/happy-birthday-priyadarshan-5044749/|access-date=2 December 2021|website=The Indian Express|archive-date=2 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202075540/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/happy-birthday-priyadarshan-5044749/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Priyadarshan - Film Director - Official Website |url=https://directorpriyadarshan.com/ |access-date=2025-04-12 |website=directorpriyadarshan.com}}</ref> is an Indian film director and [[screenwriter]]. He has worked primarily in [[Malayalam cinema|Malayalam]] and [[Hindi cinema|Hindi]] cinema since 1982, directing over 80 films in multiple Indian languages, with notable works in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] and [[Telugu language|Telugu]]. Known for his memorable comedic films, he has received several accolades, including three [[National Film Awards]], multiple [[Kerala State Film Awards]], and the [[Padma Shri]] in 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-01-30 |title=Happy Birthday, Priyadarshan: Reasons why he is a master at handling every film genres |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/happy-birthday-priyadarshan-reasons-why-he-is-a-master-at-handling-every-film-genres/photostory/89210618.cms |access-date=2025-09-02 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}</ref> Most of his Hindi films are remakes of Malayalam films, some of which Priyadarshan helmed both versions.


Priyadarshan began his career in [[Malayalam cinema]] in the early 1980s and was active throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Towards 2000s, he moved to [[Bollywood]] (Hindi-language cinema) and remained active throughout the decade. In 2013, he announced that ''[[Rangrezz]]'' would be his last Hindi film for a while and shifted focus to Malayalam cinema.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-04/news-interviews/34907733_1_priyadarshan-malayalam-film-priyan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131212083659/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-04/news-interviews/34907733_1_priyadarshan-malayalam-film-priyan|url-status=dead|archive-date=2013-12-12|work=[[The Times of India]]|title='Kamaal Dhamaal...' was a mistake: Priyadarshan}}</ref> His most notable films include ''[[Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu]]'', ''[[Thalavattam]]'', ''[[Vellanakalude Nadu]]'', ''[[Chithram]]'', ''[[Vandanam]]'', ''[[Kilukkam]]'', ''[[Abhimanyu (1991 film)|Abhimanyu]]'', ''[[Mithunam (1993 film)|Mithunam]]'', ''[[Thenmavin Kombath]]'', ''[[Kala Pani (1996 film)|Kala Pani]]'', and ''[[Chandralekha (1997 film)|Chandralekha]]''.  
He began his cinematic journey in the early 1980s, primarily working in [[Malayalam cinema]]. He directed several notable films during this period, including ''[[Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu]]'' (1986), ''[[Thalavattam]]'' (1986), ''[[Vellanakalude Nadu]]'' (1988), ''[[Chithram]]'' (1988), ''[[Vandanam]]'' (1989), and ''[[Kilukkam]]'' (1991). Throughout the 1990s, he continued directing successful films such as ''[[Abhimanyu (1991 film)|Abhimanyu]]'' (1991), ''[[Mithunam (1993 film)|Mithunam]]'' (1993), ''[[Thenmavin Kombath]]'' (1994), ''[[Kala Pani (1996 film)|Kaalapaani]]'' (1996), ''[[Chandralekha (1997 film)|Chandralekha]]'' (1997), and ''[[Megham]]'' (1999).


He is known for adapting Malayalam films into Hindi, from his own work as well as from other films. Most notable such Bollywood films include ''[[Hera Pheri (2000 film)|Hera Pheri]]'', ''[[Hungama (2003 film)|Hungama]]'', ''[[Hulchul (2004 film)|Hulchul]]'', ''[[Garam Masala (2005 film)|Garam Masala]]'', ''[[Bhagam Bhag]]'', ''[[Chup Chup Ke]]'', ''[[De Dana Dan]]'' and ''[[Bhool Bhulaiyaa]]''.
While working in Malayalam cinema, Priyadarshan also made his foray into [[Bollywood]] with the action thillers ''[[Gardish]]'' (1994) and ''[[Virasat (1997 film)|Virasat]]'' (1997). In the 2000s, he gained widespread recognition in Bollywood for his Hindi adaptations of Malayalam films, particularly in the comedy genre. Some of his most notable Bollywood films include ''[[Hera Pheri (2000 film)|Hera Pheri]]'' (2000), ''[[Hungama (2003 film)|Hungama]]'' (2003), ''[[Hulchul (2004 film)|Hulchul]]'' (2004), ''[[Garam Masala (2005 film)|Garam Masala]]'' (2005), ''[[Bhagam Bhag]]'' (2006), ''[[Chup Chup Ke]]'' (2006), ''[[Dhol (film)|Dhol]]'' (2007), ''[[De Dana Dan]]'' (2009), and ''[[Bhool Bhulaiyaa]]'' (2008).<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.bollywoodlife.com/news-gossip/priyadarshan-birthday-special-top-10-comedy-movies-starring-akshay-kumar-shahid-kapoor-and-more-that-you-can-watch-again-and-again-news-and-gossip-2323418/ | title=Priyadarshan birthday special: Top 10 comedy movies starring Akshay Kumar, Shahid Kapoor and more that you can watch again and again | date=30 January 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.iforher.com/news/entertainment-news/best-priyadarshan-movies-comedy/|title=9 Priyadarshan Movies That Are So Funny You Won't Even Want to Pause for a Second|date=24 August 2024}}</ref>


== Early life ==
== Early life ==
Priyadarshan received his early education at [[Government Model Boys Higher Secondary School|Government Model School]], Trivandrum and obtained a [[Master of Arts]] in Philosophy from [[University College Trivandrum]]. His father was a college librarian, it helped Priyadarshan to develop interest in books. He was a voracious reader during his teenage years, and during his study in college he started writing short plays and skits for [[All India Radio]]. He was influenced by the films of director [[P. Venu]]. His friends in those days included [[Mohanlal]], [[M. G. Sreekumar]], Suresh Kumar, Sanal Kumar, [[Jagadish]], [[Maniyanpilla Raju]] and Ashok Kumar. It was then that Mohanlal entered in films. His friends followed him to [[Chennai]], looking for a chance in films. Priyadarshan, with the help of Mohanlal, got a few chances to work as an assistant scriptwriter in a couple of films and started writing scripts, with some turning into success. Eventually, he had to come back to Kerala.<ref>{{cite web |title=Trivandrum days |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/trivandrum-days/article780844.ece |work=The Hindu}}</ref>
Priyadarshan received his early education at the [[Government Model Boys Higher Secondary School|Government Model School]] in [[Thiruvananthapuram]], and later a [[Master of Arts]] in [[Philosophy]] from [[University College Thiruvananthapuram]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-03 |title=University College, Thiruvananthapuram – University College, Thiruvananthapuram |url=https://universitycollege.ac.in/ |access-date=2025-03-24 |language=en-US}}</ref> His father, a college librarian, nurtured his love for literature, which led to a passion for storytelling. He was an avid reader in his teens, and during college, he began writing short plays and skits for [[All India Radio]]. He was influenced by the films of director [[P. Venu]]. His friends during this time included [[Mohanlal]], [[M. G. Sreekumar]], Suresh Kumar, Sanal Kumar, [[Jagadish]], [[Maniyanpilla Raju]], and Ashok Kumar. Mohanlal entered the [[film industry]], and his friends followed him to [[Chennai]] in search of opportunities. With Mohanlal's help, Priyadarshan worked as an assistant [[scriptwriter]] on a few films and began writing his own scripts, some of which became successful. Eventually, he returned to Kerala.<ref>{{cite news |title=Trivandrum days |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/trivandrum-days/article780844.ece |work=The Hindu |date=29 January 2010 |access-date=13 September 2014 |archive-date=5 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205203610/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/trivandrum-days/article780844.ece |url-status=live }}</ref>
 
Though he initially aspired to become a cricketer, an eye injury shifted his focus toward filmmaking.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2012-10-01 |title=What made Priyadarshan give up cricket? |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/what-made-priyadarshan-give-up-cricket/articleshow/16624454.cms |access-date=2024-03-30 |work=The Times of India |archive-date=30 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330051750/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/what-made-priyadarshan-give-up-cricket/articleshow/16624454.cms |url-status=live }}</ref>


== Film career ==
== Film career ==
Priyadarshan has been active in [[Cinema of India|Indian cinema]] since 1984 as a director and screenwriter, directing over 95 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu.
=== 1984–1987 ===
In 1984, Priyadarshan made his directorial debut with ''[[Poochakkoru Mookkuthi]]'', a slapstick comedy produced by his friends Suresh Kumar and Sanal Kumar, with financial backing from Thiruvenkadam. [[Mohanlal]], who had become a well-known actor by then, starred alongside [[Shankar (actor)|Shankar]] as the parallel lead. The film received critical acclaim and became a commercial success, running for 100 days in Kerala theaters.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-03-18 |title=#FilmyFriday! Poochakkoru Mookkuthi: A screwball comedy that will leave you glued to your screens! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/filmyfriday-poochakkoru-mookkuthi-a-screwball-comedy-that-will-leave-you-glued-to-your-screens/articleshow/90304772.cms |access-date=2025-03-30 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
Following this success, Priyadarshan continued making comedies, directing ''[[Odaruthammava Aalariyam]]'' and ''[[Onnanam Kunnil Oradi Kunnil]]''. He then experimented with a family thriller, ''[[Parayanumvayya Parayathirikkanumvayya]]'', starring [[Mammootty]] and Shankar. His first film without Mohanlal, ''[[Punnaram Cholli Cholli]]'', was followed by ''[[Boeing Boeing (1985 film)|Boeing Boeing]]'' and ''[[Aram + Aram = Kinnaram]]'', both of which were well received.


Priyadarshan has been working since 40 years in [[Indian cinema]] as a director and screenwriter. He has directed over 95 Films in 4 Indian languages mainly, Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi and Telugu.
However, ''[[Rakkuyilin Ragasadassil]]'', despite featuring hit songs, failed at the box office. He regained success with ''[[Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu]]'', ''[[Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi]]'', and ''[[Dheem Tharikida Thom]]''. The family drama ''[[Thalavattam]]'' established him as a director capable of handling serious themes, further strengthening his position in the Malayalam film industry.


=== 1984-1987 ===
During this period, Priyadarshan also directed a Tamil film, ''[[Chinnamanikkuyile]]'', which remained unreleased. Meanwhile, his Malayalam film ''[[Cheppu]]'' achieved commercial success.
In 1984, Priyadarshan, along with his close friends Suresh Kumar and Sanal Kumar, decided to produce a film as Shankar, the saleable hero, helped them in arranging finance from Thiruvenkadam, a top film financier. Mohanlal, who was by then a popular star, was selected as the parallel hero along with [[Shankar (actor)|Shankar]]. Thus in 1984, Priyadarshan made his debut as director with [[Poochakkoru Mookkuthi|''Poochakkoru Mookkuthi'']], which was a surprise hit. A slapstick comedy film shot on a low budget, it completed a successful run of 100 days in Kerala theatres.{{fact|date=July 2022}} Priyan continued his fine form for slapstick comedy with the successful ''[[Odaruthammava Aalariyam]]'' and he later made ''[[Onnanam Kunnil Oradi Kunnil]]'' and the [[Mammootty]]-[[Shankar (actor)|Shankar]] family thriller ''[[Parayanumvayya Parayathirikkanumvayya]]''. Then he made ''[[Punnaram Cholli Cholli]]'', his first film without [[Mohanlal]]. His successful stinct continued with ''[[Boeing Boeing (1985 film)|Boeing Boeing]]'' and ''[[Aram + Aram = Kinnaram]]'', both doing wonderful business. He was later criticised for making ''[[Rakkuyilin Ragasadassil]]'', a film which was supposed to be made with [[Shankar (actor)|Shankar]] and [[Menaka (actress)|Menaka]] and many said the lead pair [[Mammootty]] & [[Suhasini Maniratnam|Suhasini]] was miscast and in spite of hit songs, the film flopped. But ''[[Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu]]'', ''[[Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi]]'' and ''[[Dheem Tharikida Thom]]'' became hits underlining his consistency. Priyan was accepted as a serious director with the highly successful tragic family drama ''[[Thalavattam]]''. His [[Tamil language|Tamil]] film ''[[Chinnamanikkuyile]]'' remained unreleased, while his success stint continued in Malayalam with ''[[Cheppu]]'' being a success.{{fact|date=July 2022}}


=== 1988-1998 ===
He then made ''[[Punnaram Cholli Cholli]]'', his first film without [[Mohanlal]], followed by ''[[Boeing Boeing (1985 film)|Boeing Boeing]]'' and ''[[Aram + Aram = Kinnaram]].'' He was later criticised for ''[[Rakkuyilin Ragasadassil]]''. Despite hit songs, the film flopped. However, ''[[Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu]]'', ''[[Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi]]'' and ''[[Dheem Tharikida Thom]]'' were successful. Priyadarshan gained recognition as a serious director with the successful family drama ''[[Thalavattam]]''. His [[Tamil language|Tamil]] film ''[[Chinnamanikkuyile]]'' remained unreleased, while his work in Malayalam continued with ''[[Cheppu]]'', which was a success.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-30 |title=Priyadarshan – the man at 66, and the director at 39 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/priyadarshan-the-man-66-and-the-director-39-8411624/ |access-date=2025-03-30 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>
1988 was a landmark year in Priyadarshan's career. He directed ''[[Vellanakalude Nadu]]'', based on a script by [[Sreenivasan]], with Mohanlal in the lead role. This film revolved around corruption, land mafia and other social issues. This film ended up becoming the biggest hit in Priyadarshan's career to that point. Then came ''[[Aryan (1988 film)|Aryan]]'', an action film based on the [[Mumbai]] underworld scripted by [[T.Damodaran]], which completed 150 days in theatres. ''[[Chithram]]'', Priyadarshan's all-time biggest hit, was also released in 1988. ''Chithram'' completed 366 days in theatres and created new records in collections, until they were broken by his own film, ''[[Kilukkam]]'' in 1991. ''[[Oru Muthassi Katha]]'' and ''[[Mukunthetta Sumitra Vilikkunnu]]'' completed his 5 releases of 1988. However, he couldn't deliver hits in 1990 with ''[[Kadathanadan Ambadi]]'' and ''[[Akkare Akkare Akkare]]''. In the year 1991, Priyadarshan brought out ''[[Kilukkam]]'' with Mohanlal, [[Jagathi Sreekumar]] and [[Revathi]] . ''Kilukkam'' broke several collection records and is still considered one of the best films from the Priyadarshan-Mohanlal team. His next three films, ''[[Abhimanyu (1991 film)|Abhimanyu]]'' (1991), ''[[Advaitham]]'' (1992), and ''[[Thenmavin Kombathu]]'' (1994) successfully completed 100 days in theatres. Both ''[[Mithunam (1993 film)|Midhunam]]'' (1993) and ''[[Minnaram]]'' (1994) were able to make good response in cinemas. Meanwhile, Priyadarshan was invited by [[Karunanidhi|Shri. M. Karunanidhi]] to direct a film for his son's production house. Priyadarshan thus made his [[Tamil language|Tamil]] debut with ''[[Gopura Vasalile]]'' . In 1991 he also made a [[Telugu Cinema|Telugu film]] ''[[Nirnayam (1991 film)|Nirnayam]]'' when [[Akkineni Nagarjuna|Nagarjuna]] approached him to remake his [[Malayalam film]] ''[[Vandanam]]'' in Telugu. In the year 1992, Priyadarshan made his debut in [[Bollywood]] with [[Muskurahat (1992 film)|''Muskurahat'']], again remake of his own Malayalam film ''[[Kilukkam]]'' which ended up as a disastrous flop.{{fact|date=July 2022}}


In 1993, he made a comeback in Hindi with ''[[Gardish]]'', an adaptation of the Malayalam film ''[[Kireedam (1989 film)|Kireedom]]'', written by [[A. K. Lohithadas]]. Priyadarshan successfully added ingredients required for Hindi audiences and the film was a huge hit, opening the doors of [[Bollywood]] to him. In 1994, Priyadarshan directed his second and last [[Telugu language|Telugu]] film till date, ''[[Gandeevam]]'', starring [[Nandamuri Balakrishna|Balakrishna]]. He was also assigned the direction of the Miss World 1996 event that was held in [[Bangalore]], which made him a known face around the country. In 1996, Priyadarshan came up with his dream project, ''[[Kala Pani (1996 film)|Kalapani]]'', an epic period film based on Indian struggle for Independence scripted by [[T.Damodaran]]. With [[Mohanlal]], [[Tabu (actress)|Tabu]], [[Prabhu (actor)|Prabhu]] and [[Amrish Puri]] in main roles and outstanding music by Ilaiyaraja, ''[[Kala Pani (1996 film)|Kalapani]]'' took Priyadarshan's career path to new heights. This film, which was originally filmed in Malayalam, was also dubbed and released in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi simultaneously. ''Kalapani'' brought him several awards for the first time in his career. In 1997, Priyadarshan directed two films, ''[[Chandralekha (1997 film)|Chandralekha]]'' in Malayalam and ''[[Virasat (1997 film)|Virasat]]'' a Hindi adaptation of [[Bharathan|Bharathan's]] Tamil film ''[[Thevar Magan]]'', both super hits. The success of ''Virasat'' made Priyadarshan a household name in Hindi cinema.{{fact|date=July 2022}}
=== 1988–1998 ===
In the year 1998, Priyadarshan directed three films, ''[[Saat Rang Ke Sapne]]'', remake of his own ''[[Thenmavin Kombathu]]'', then ''[[Doli Saja Ke Rakhna]]'', with story adapted from ''[[Fazil (director)|Fazil]]'s'' ''[[Aniyathi Pravu]]'' and ''[[Kabhi na Kabhi]]'', but all three bombed at the box office. Priyadarshan joined with [[Mammooty]] after a long gap in 1999 for ''[[Megham]]''. During this period Priyadarshan received a couple of offers from [[Chiranjeevi]] and [[Nagarjuna]], actors of Telugu industry to direct them, but declined them and moved on to his next Hindi project.{{fact|date=July 2022}}
In 1988, Priyadarshan directed multiple films that contributed to his growing recognition in Indian cinema. ''[[Vellanakalude Nadu]]'', scripted by Sreenivasan and starring Mohanlal, tackled themes of corruption and land mafia, becoming a significant film in his career. He then directed ''[[Aryan (1988 film)|Aryan]]'', an action film written by [[T. Damodaran]], which depicted the [[Mumbai]] underworld and achieved commercial success, running for over 150 days in theaters.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=2017-01-24 |title=Priyan and I share a special bond: Mohanlal |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/Priyan-and-I-share-a-special-bond-Mohanlal/articleshow/51683288.cms |access-date=2025-03-30 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>


=== 2000-2016 ===
That same year, ''[[Chithram]]'', a comedy-drama starring Mohanlal, was released. The film ran for 366 days in theaters, setting box office records at the time, later surpassed by his own film ''[[Kilukkam]]'' in 1991.<ref name=":0" /> Priyadarshan's other releases in 1988 included ''[[Oru Muthassi Katha]]'' and ''[[Mukunthetta Sumitra Vilikkunnu]]''. However, he faced setbacks in 1990 with ''[[Kadathanadan Ambadi]]'' and ''[[Akkare Akkare Akkare]]'', which did not perform well commercially.
In 2000, ''[[Hera Pheri (2000 film)|Hera Pheri]]'' was released in Hindi, which for once and all changed the destiny of Priyadarshan in [[Bollywood]]. ''Hera Pheri'', an adaptation of the Malayalam film ''[[Ramjirao Speaking]]'' (1989), was a huge hit at the box office. Starring [[Akshay Kumar]], [[Sunil Shetty]], [[Tabu (actress)|Tabu]] and [[Paresh Rawal]], this film is now considered a landmark in the history of Hindi cinema. The film also gave birth to the Priyadarshan-Akshay Kumar team, which in later years produced several hits. After ''[[Hera Pheri (2000 film)|Hera Pheri]]'', [[Paresh Rawal]] became another regular face in Priyadarshan films. This film was followed by a series of films in Hindi including ''[[Yeh Teraa Ghar Yeh Meraa Ghar]]'', ''[[Hungama (2003 film)|Hungama]]'', ''[[Hulchul (2004 film)|Hulchul]]'', ''[[Garam Masala (2005 film)|Garam Masala]]'', and ''[[Kyon Ki]]''. In the year 2000, Priyadarshan directed the Malayalam-Tamil bilingual ''[[Raakilipattu]]'' (''[[Snegithiye]]'' in Tamil) starring [[Tabu (actress)|Tabu]] and [[Jyothika]], with story adapted from the [[Marathi language|Marathi]] film ''[[Bindhaast]]'', an experimental film with all female characters, which was critically well received. The original plan was to release both versions simultaneously, but due to unknown reasons the Malayalam version was delayed and the Tamil version released first. The Malayalam as well as the dubbed Hindi version, ''Friendship'', released only seven years later in 2007.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0354922/releaseinfo|title=Snegithiye (2000)|publisher=IMDb}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/malayalam/article/28481.html|title=Howzzat? Priyan film releases and goes unnoticed!}}</ref>


Priyadarshan's [[English language]] [[epic film|epic]] period film titled ''[[The Last Revolutionary]]'' produced by [[20th Century Fox]], based on the life of Indian freedom fighter [[Chandrasekhar Azad]] was supposed begin filming in 2001, but the project was shelved due to unknown reasons.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/entertai/2001/oct/05priy.htm|title=rediff.com, Movies:'I'm a greedy filmmaker':Priyadarshan|website=rediff.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Bachchan-Jr-to-star-in-international-project/articleshow/1367975380.cms|title=Bachchan Jr to star in international project |website=The Times of India}}</ref> During this period, Tamil actor [[Kamal Haasan]] was working on his ambitious film, ''[[Anbe Sivam]]''. After finishing the script, Kamal Haasan approached Priyadarshan to direct the film. The pre-production commenced; but after some differences of opinion between the director and the actor; Priyadarshan opted out from the project before the first schedule. This sudden setback led to the whole crew to run out of their schedules. Hence, the producers after convincing Kamal Haasan, quickly roped in Sundar.C to direct the film.
In 1991, ''[[Kilukkam]]'', starring Mohanlal, [[Jagathy Sreekumar|Jagathi Sreekumar]], and [[Revathi]], became a box office success, further cementing Priyadarshan's reputation. His subsequent films, ''[[Abhimanyu (1991 film)|Abhimanyu]]'' (1991), ''[[Adhwaytham|Advaitham]]'' (1992), and ''[[Thenmavin Kombath]]u'' (1994), all ran for over 100 days in theaters.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-08-26 |title=25 Years Of Kilukkam: Some Interesting Facts About The Film! |url=https://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2016/25-years-of-kilukkam-some-interesting-facts-about-the-mohanlal-starrer-238862.html |access-date=2025-03-30 |website=www.filmibeat.com |language=en}}</ref> ''[[Mithunam (1993 film)|Midhunam]]'' (1993) and ''[[Minnaram]]'' (1994) also received positive responses from audiences.
<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:PriyadarshanWithCameron.jpg|right|thumb|250px|Priyadarshan (left) with ''[[Avatar (2009 film)|Avatar]]'' director [[James Cameron]], when the latter visited the sets of the Malayalam film ''[[Oru Marubhoomikkadha]]''.]] -->
Priyadarshan made the comedy film ''[[Kakkakuyil]]'' in 2001, bringing back the old combo of [[Mohanlal]] and [[Mukesh (actor)|Mukesh]], which was popular in the 1980s and 1990s. The film was a superhit at the box office. Then his two other films in Malayalam, ''[[Kilichundan Mampazham]]'' and ''[[Vettam]]'' released in 2003 and 2004 respectively, were average run at box office, which made him concentrate more in Bollywood. But at the same time, in Hindi, Priyadarshan continued his successful run with ''[[Chup Chup Ke]]'', ''[[Bhagam Bhag]]'', ''[[Malamaal Weekly]]'', ''[[Dhol (2007 film)|Dhol]]'', ''[[Bhool Bhulaiyaa]]'', ''[[De Dana Dan]]'' and ''[[Mere Baap Pehle Aap]]''. But his subsequent films ''[[Billu]]'', ''[[Bumm Bumm Bole]]'', ''[[Khatta Meeta]]'', ''[[Aakrosh (2010 film)|Aakrosh]]'' and ''[[Tezz]]'' failed to live up to the expectations. His most recent release ''[[Rangrezz]]'' also failed at the box-office.
In the meantime, Priyadarshan stunned everyone with ''[[Kanchivaram]]'', an offbeat film that revolved around the weavers in Kanchipuram. Prakash Raj, who played the central character, won the [[National Film Award for Best Actor]] in 2008. Kanchivaram also won accolades at several film festivals.


Priyadarshan returned to Malayalam films directing the Mohanlal starrer, ''[[Arabeem Ottakom P. Madhavan Nayarum in Oru Marubhoomikkadha]]''. The 2013 film ''[[Geethaanjali]]'' starring Mohanlal as Dr. Sunny Joseph, and the 2014 film ''[[Aamayum Muyalum]]'' did not do well at the box-office.
Priyadarshan expanded into Tamil cinema when he was invited by [[M. Karunanidhi]] to direct ''[[Gopura Vasalile]]'' for his son's production house. In 1991, he directed his first [[Telugu cinema|Telugu film]], ''[[Nirnayam (1991 film)|Nirnayam]]'', when actor  [[Akkineni Nagarjuna|Nagarjuna]] approached him to remake the Malayalam film ''[[Vandanam]]''. He made his Bollywood debut in 1992 with ''[[Muskurahat (1992 film)|Muskurahat]]'', a remake of ''Kilukkam'', though it failed at the box office.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0255401/reviews/ |title=Muskurahat (1992) - User reviews - IMDb |language=en-US |access-date=2025-03-30 |via=www.imdb.com}}</ref>
 
In 1993, Priyadarshan returned to Bollywood with ''[[Gardish]]'', an adaptation of the Malayalam film ''[[Kireedam (1989 film)|Kireedom]]'', written by [[A. K. Lohithadas]]. In 1994, he directed his second and, to date, last [[Telugu cinema|Telugu]] film, ''[[Gandeevam]]'', starring [[Nandamuri Balakrishna|Balakrishna]]. He gained national recognition in 1996 when he directed the Miss World pageant held in [[Bangalore]]. That same year, he released ''[[Kalapani (1996 film)|Kalapani]]'', a period drama about India's independence struggle, scripted by [[T. Damodaran]]. The film, starring Mohanlal, [[Tabu (actress)|Tabu]], [[Prabhu (actor)|Prabhu]], and [[Amrish Puri]], was originally made in Malayalam and later dubbed into Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. ''Kalapani'' won multiple awards and was widely praised for its historical narrative and cinematography.<ref>{{Cite web | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404130411/http://dff.nic.in/images/Documents/74_43rdNfacatalogue.pdf | url=http://dff.nic.in/images/Documents/74_43rdNfacatalogue.pdf| title=43rd National Film Festival 1996 | archive-date=2023-04-04}}</ref>
 
In 1997, Priyadarshan directed two commercially successful films: ''[[Chandralekha (1997 film)|Chandralekha]]'' in Malayalam and ''[[Virasat (1997 film)|Virasat]]'' in Hindi, the latter being an adaptation of [[Bharathan|Bharathan's]] Tamil film ''[[Thevar Magan]]''. In 1998, he directed three Hindi films—''[[Saat Rang Ke Sapne]]'' (a remake of ''[[Thenmavin Kombath]]u''), ''[[Doli Saja Ke Rakhna]]'' (inspired by ''[[Aniyathipraavu|Aniyathi Pravu]]''), and ''[[Kabhi Na Kabhi]]''—all of which underperformed at the box office. In 1999, he collaborated with [[Mammootty]] for ''[[Megham]]'', marking their first film together in several years.
 
=== 2000–2016 ===
In 2000, Priyadarshan directed [[Hera Pheri (2000 film)|''Hera Pheri'']], a Hindi adaptation of the Malayalam film ''[[Ramji Rao Speaking]]'' (1989). The film, starring [[Akshay Kumar]], [[Suniel Shetty|Sunil Shetty]], Tabu, and [[Paresh Rawal]], became a box office success and is regarded as a landmark in Hindi cinema. It also marked the beginning of a long-term collaboration between Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-30 |title=Revisiting Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan's iconic collaborations |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/news/best-works-of-akshay-kumar-and-priyadarshan-1.9945245 |access-date=2025-03-30 |website=English.Mathrubhumi |language=en}}</ref> while Paresh Rawal became a regular in many of his subsequent films.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hera Pheri - Movie - Box Office India |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=714& |access-date=2025-03-30 |website=www.boxofficeindia.com}}</ref>
 
Following ''Hera Pheri'', Priyadarshan directed several Hindi films, including ''[[Yeh Teraa Ghar Yeh Meraa Ghar]]'', ''[[Hungama (2003 film)|Hungama]]'', ''[[Hulchul (2004 film)|Hulchul]]'', ''[[Garam Masala (2005 film)|Garam Masala]]'', and ''[[Kyon Ki]]''. In 2000, he also directed ''[[Snegithiye|Raakilipattu]]'', a bilingual Malayalam-Tamil thriller (''[[Snegithiye]]'' in Tamil), starring Tabu and [[Jyothika]]. Adapted from the [[Marathi language|Marathi]] film ''[[Bindhaast]]'', the film was notable for its all-female cast and received critical acclaim. While the Tamil version was released in 2000, the Malayalam version and a dubbed Hindi version (''Friendship'') were released in 2007.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0354922/releaseinfo|title=Snegithiye (2000)|publisher=IMDb|access-date=21 March 2011|archive-date=27 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027002924/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0354922/releaseinfo|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/malayalam/article/28481.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110613165307/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/malayalam/article/28481.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 June 2011|title=Howzzat? Priyan film releases and goes unnoticed!}}</ref>
 
Priyadarshan's [[English language|English-language]] [[Epic film|epic]] period film titled ''[[The Last Revolutionary]]'', produced by [[20th Century Studios|20th Century Fox]] and based on the life of Indian freedom fighter [[Chandra Shekhar Azad]] was planned for filming in 2001 but was eventually shelved.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/entertai/2001/oct/05priy.htm|title=rediff.com, Movies:'I'm a greedy filmmaker':Priyadarshan|website=rediff.com|access-date=25 March 2020|archive-date=24 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210124062729/https://www.rediff.com/entertai/2001/oct/05priy.htm|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Bachchan-Jr-to-star-in-international-project/articleshow/1367975380.cms|title=Bachchan Jr to star in international project|website=The Times of India|date=12 August 2001|access-date=25 March 2020|archive-date=13 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190313152700/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Bachchan-Jr-to-star-in-international-project/articleshow/1367975380.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>  During this time, [[Kamal Haasan]] was working on ''[[Anbe Sivam]]'' and approached Priyadarshan to direct it. Pre-production commenced, but Priyadarshan left the project due to creative differences, leading to [[Sundar C]]. taking over as director. In 2001, Priyadarshan directed the comedy film ''[[Kakkakuyil]]'', reuniting Mohanlal and [[Mukesh (actor)|Mukesh]], a successful duo from the 1980s and 1990s. The film became a box-office hit. However, his next two Malayalam films, ''[[Kilichundan Mampazham]]'' (2003) and ''[[Vettam]]'' (2004), had only an average performance at the box office, prompting him to shift focus toward Bollywood. In Hindi cinema, Priyadarshan maintained his success with films such as ''[[Chup Chup Ke]]'', ''[[Bhagam Bhag]]'', ''[[Malamaal Weekly]]'', ''[[Dhol (film)|Dhol]]'', ''[[Bhool Bhulaiyaa]]'', ''[[De Dana Dan]]'', and ''[[Mere Baap Pehle Aap]]''. However, subsequent films like ''[[Billu Barber|Billu]]'', ''[[Bumm Bumm Bole]]'', ''[[Khatta Meetha (2010 film)|Khatta Meeta]]'', ''[[Aakrosh (2010 film)|Aakrosh]]'', and ''[[Tezz]]'' did not meet expectations at the box office. His 2013 film ''[[Rangrezz]]'' also failed commercially.
 
Priyadarshan released ''[[Kanchivaram]]'', a film about weavers in Kanchipuram. [[Prakash Raj]] won the [[National Film Award for Best Actor]] in 2008 for his performance. ''[[Kanchivaram]]'' also won awards at film festivals.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2009-09-07 |title='Kanchivaram' wins national award for best feature film |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/lsquoKanchivaramrsquo-wins-national-award-for-best-feature-film/article16879932.ece |access-date=2025-03-30 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
 
Returning to Malayalam cinema, Priyadarshan directed ''[[Arabeem Ottakom P. Madhavan Nayarum in Oru Marubhoomikkadha]]'', starring Mohanlal. However, his subsequent films ''[[Geethaanjali]]'' (2013) and ''[[Aamayum Muyalum]]'' (2014) were box-office failures.


[[File:Jackky, Priya & Priyadarshan promote ‘Rangrezz’.jpg|thumb|Priyadarshan promoting ''[[Rangrezz]]'' with [[Jackky Bhagnani]] and [[Priya Anand]] in 2013]]
[[File:Jackky, Priya & Priyadarshan promote ‘Rangrezz’.jpg|thumb|Priyadarshan promoting ''[[Rangrezz]]'' with [[Jackky Bhagnani]] and [[Priya Anand]] in 2013]]


In late 2015, Priyadarshan announced a crime thriller film in [[Malayalam cinema|Malayalam]], with [[Mohanlal]] in the lead role.<ref>{{cite web|last=Menon|first=Akhila|title=WHAT! Mohanlal Says No To Priyadarshan?|url=http://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2015/mohanlal-says-no-to-priyadarshan-204372.html|publisher=[[Filmibeat]]|access-date=16 March 2016|date=6 November 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Vikram|first=Raj|title=Mohanlal to play a blind man in Priyadarshan's 73 rd movie|url=http://www.metromatinee.com/news-articles/mohanlal-to-play-a-blind-man-in-priyadarshans-73-rd-movie-12922|publisher=Metromatinee.com|access-date=16 March 2016|date=6 November 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160328134032/http://www.metromatinee.com/news-articles/mohanlal-to-play-a-blind-man-in-priyadarshans-73-rd-movie-12922|archive-date=28 March 2016}}</ref> The production was confirmed and the title ''[[Oppam]]'' was announced in December 2015. The director started working on the film ahead of another big-budget film starring Mohanlal, which was delayed due to unfavourable weather in [[Russia]], where the film was supposed to be shot.<ref>{{cite news|last=James|first=Anu|title=Mohanlal-Priyadarshan to join hands for small budget film before Russian project?|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/mohanlal-priyadarshan-join-hands-small-budget-film-before-russian-project-659587|access-date=16 March 2016|agency=[[International Business Times]]|date=15 December 2015}}</ref> The screenplay and dialogues are written by Priyadarshan himself which is based on the story by debutant writer Govind Vijayan. The film released to positive reviews<ref>{{cite news|last=James|first=Anu|title='Oppam' critics review: Comeback movie of Mohanlal, Priyadarshan duo|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/oppam-critics-review-comeback-movie-mohanlal-priyadarshan-duo-693118|access-date=13 September 2016|work=[[International Business Times]]|date=9 September 2016}}</ref> and emerged as a blockbuster, beating several records<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2016/oppam-box-office-collection-6-records-broken-by-the-mohanlal-starrer-242754.html|title=Oppam Box Office Collection: 6 Records Broken by the Mohanlal Starrer!|date=28 September 2016|website=filmibeat.com}}</ref> and becoming the highest grossing Malayalam film of the year within 16 days of release.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.newsintrends.com/story/oppam-beats-jacobinte-swargarajyam-to-be-the-biggest-hit-of-2016--2213070.html |title=Oppam Beats Jacobinte Swargarajyam to be the Biggest Hit of 2016! |access-date=29 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161002064858/http://www.newsintrends.com/story/oppam-beats-jacobinte-swargarajyam-to-be-the-biggest-hit-of-2016--2213070.html |archive-date=2 October 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
In late 2015, Priyadarshan announced a crime thriller in [[Malayalam cinema|Malayalam]] with [[Mohanlal]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Menon|first=Akhila|title=WHAT! Mohanlal Says No To Priyadarshan?|url=http://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2015/mohanlal-says-no-to-priyadarshan-204372.html|publisher=[[Filmibeat]]|access-date=16 March 2016|date=6 November 2015|archive-date=8 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160608082912/http://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2015/mohanlal-says-no-to-priyadarshan-204372.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Vikram|first=Raj|title=Mohanlal to play a blind man in Priyadarshan's 73 rd movie|url=http://www.metromatinee.com/news-articles/mohanlal-to-play-a-blind-man-in-priyadarshans-73-rd-movie-12922|publisher=Metromatinee.com|access-date=16 March 2016|date=6 November 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160328134032/http://www.metromatinee.com/news-articles/mohanlal-to-play-a-blind-man-in-priyadarshans-73-rd-movie-12922|archive-date=28 March 2016}}</ref> The production was confirmed, and the title ''[[Oppam]]'' was announced in December 2015. Due to weather constraints in [[Russia]], another big-budget Mohanlal film was delayed, allowing Priyadarshan to begin work on ''Oppam''.<ref>{{cite news|last=James|first=Anu|title=Mohanlal-Priyadarshan to join hands for small budget film before Russian project?|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/mohanlal-priyadarshan-join-hands-small-budget-film-before-russian-project-659587|access-date=16 March 2016|agency=[[International Business Times]]|date=15 December 2015|archive-date=31 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160331074002/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/mohanlal-priyadarshan-join-hands-small-budget-film-before-russian-project-659587|url-status=live}}</ref> The screenplay and dialogues, written by Priyadarshan based on a story by [[Govind Vijayan]], received positive reviews<ref>{{cite news|last=James|first=Anu|title='Oppam' critics review: Comeback movie of Mohanlal, Priyadarshan duo|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/oppam-critics-review-comeback-movie-mohanlal-priyadarshan-duo-693118|access-date=13 September 2016|work=[[International Business Times]]|date=9 September 2016|archive-date=5 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180105152735/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/oppam-critics-review-comeback-movie-mohanlal-priyadarshan-duo-693118|url-status=live}}</ref> and became a blockbuster, breaking records<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2016/oppam-box-office-collection-6-records-broken-by-the-mohanlal-starrer-242754.html|title=Oppam Box Office Collection: 6 Records Broken by the Mohanlal Starrer!|date=28 September 2016|website=filmibeat.com|access-date=25 March 2020|archive-date=25 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325043105/https://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2016/oppam-box-office-collection-6-records-broken-by-the-mohanlal-starrer-242754.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and becoming the highest-grossing Malayalam film of the year within 16 days of release.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.newsintrends.com/story/oppam-beats-jacobinte-swargarajyam-to-be-the-biggest-hit-of-2016--2213070.html |title=Oppam Beats Jacobinte Swargarajyam to be the Biggest Hit of 2016! |access-date=29 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161002064858/http://www.newsintrends.com/story/oppam-beats-jacobinte-swargarajyam-to-be-the-biggest-hit-of-2016--2213070.html |archive-date=2 October 2016 |url-status=usurped }}</ref>


[[File:BLACK BOX in conversation with Director Priyadarshan, at the 46th International Film Festival of India (IFFI-2015), in Panaji, Goa on November 25, 2015.jpg|thumb|Priyadarshan at [[46th International Film Festival of India]] in 2015]]
[[File:BLACK BOX in conversation with Director Priyadarshan, at the 46th International Film Festival of India (IFFI-2015), in Panaji, Goa on November 25, 2015.jpg|thumb|Priyadarshan at [[46th International Film Festival of India]] in 2015]]


=== 2018-present ===
=== 2018–present ===
In early 2018, he started pre-production on ''[[Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham]]'', a [[Malayalam language]] epic historical period film set in the 16th century. The film with [[Mohanlal]] in the titular role, is based on the battle exploits of [[Kunjali Marakkar IV]]—the naval chieftain of the [[Zamorin of Calicut]]. Kunjali Marakkars organised the first naval defense of the Indian coast by safeguarding [[Calicut]] from [[Portuguese India|Portuguese invasion]] for almost a century. The film was eventually released on 2 December 2021.  
In early 2018, Priyadarshan began pre-production on ''[[Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham]]'', a [[Malayalam-language]] historical period film set in the 16th century. The film, starring Mohanlal, is based on the battle exploits of [[Kunjali Marakkar|Kunjali Marakkar IV]]—the naval chieftain of the [[Zamorin of Calicut]] who organized the first naval defense of the Indian coast by safeguarding [[Calicut]] from [[Portuguese India|Portuguese invasion]] for almost a century. The film was released on December 2, 2021, and while it received mixed reviews, it failed at the box office due to its high production costs.


==Other work==
Before the release of ''Marakkar'', Priyadarshan directed a spiritual sequel to his 2003 Hindi film ''[[Hungama (2003 film)|Hungama]]'', titled ''[[Hungama 2]]''. Released directly on 23 July 2021 on [[Disney+ Hotstar]], the film received negative reviews. It was loosely based on Priyadarshan's 1994 Malayalam film ''[[Minnaram]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/shilpa-shetty-s-hungama-2-to-premiere-on-disney-hotstar-on-july-23-1821100-2021-06-30 |title=Shilpa Shetty's Hungama 2 to premiere on Disney+Hotstar on July 23 |date=30 June 2021 |access-date=4 May 2023 |archive-date=30 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210630133808/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/shilpa-shetty-s-hungama-2-to-premiere-on-disney-hotstar-on-july-23-1821100-2021-06-30 |url-status=live}}</ref>
Priyadarshan has also directed many advertisement films. His most popular commercials are for [[Coca-Cola]], [[American Express]], [[Nokia]], [[Parker Pen Company|Parker Pens]], Asian Paints, [[Kinley (brand)|Kinley]] and [[New York Life Insurance Company|Max New York Life Insurance]].<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6762475556E91C03|title=Priyadarshan – Director's Reel|via=[[YouTube]]}}</ref>


==Frequent collaborators ==
In 2023, Priyadarshan produced and directed ''[[Corona Papers]]'', a Malayalam film starring [[Shane Nigam]]. The film, an official remake of the Tamil film ''[[8 Thottakkal]]'' (inspired by Akira Kurosawa's 1949 ''Stray Dog''), was released on April 6, 2023. It received positive reviews and was a moderate success at the box office.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://lensmenreviews.com/corona-papers-malayalam-movie-review-2023/ | title=Corona Papers Review &#124; an Elaborate and Restructured Version of 8 Thottakkal with a Superb Sidhique | date=6 April 2023 | access-date=4 May 2023 | archive-date=12 April 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230412014009/https://lensmenreviews.com/corona-papers-malayalam-movie-review-2023/ | url-status=live }}</ref>
He frequently collaborated with actors like [[Mohanlal]], [[Mammootty]], [[Shankar (actor)|Shankar]], [[Kuthiravattam Pappu]], [[Thikkurissy Sukumaran Nair]], [[Sankaradi]], [[M.G. Soman]], [[Thilakan]], [[Jagathy Sreekumar]], [[Innocent (actor)|Innocent]], [[Nedumudi Venu]], [[Sreenivasan]], [[Sukumari]], [[Kaviyoor Ponnamma]], [[Shobana]], [[KPAC Lalitha]], [[Revathi]], [[Lissy (actress)|Lissy]], [[Cochin Haneefa]], [[Maniyanpilla Raju]], [[Mukesh (actor)|Mukesh]], [[Nandhu]], [[Jagadeesh]], [[C.I. Paul]], [[Vineeth]], [[K.B. Ganesh Kumar|Ganesh Kumar]] and [[Mammukoya|Mamukoya]].


In the same year, Priyadarshan directed the Tamil film ''[[Appatha]]'', starring Urvashi in the lead role. Released directly on 29 July 2023 on [[JioCinema]], the film was celebrated as Urvashi's 700th project and was showcased at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Film Festival.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-01-27 |title=Urvasi's 700th film 'Appatha' to be screened at the Shangai Cooperation Organisation Film Festival |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/urvasis-700th-film-appatha-to-be-screened-at-the-shangai-cooperation-organisation-film-festival/articleshow/97369393.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-07-31 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=31 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230731212032/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/urvasis-700th-film-appatha-to-be-screened-at-the-shangai-cooperation-organisation-film-festival/articleshow/97369393.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-07-24 |title=Urvashi's 700th film 'Appatha' premieres directly on OTT from July 29 |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/urvashis-700th-film-appatha-premieres-directly-on-ott-from-july-29/articleshow/102078290.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-07-31 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=24 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230724144508/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/urvashis-700th-film-appatha-premieres-directly-on-ott-from-july-29/articleshow/102078290.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-26 |title=Priyadarshan's 'Appatha' to open Shanghai Cooperation Organisation film festival |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/priyadarshan-tamil-film-appatha-open-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-festival-2326870-2023-01-26 |access-date=2025-03-30 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>


His multiple collaborations in Hindi include [[Tabu (actress)|Tabu]], [[Paresh Rawal]], [[Pooja Batra]], [[Amrish Puri]], [[Johny Lever]], [[Asrani]], [[Akshay Kumar]], [[Anil Kapoor]], [[Akshaye Khanna]], [[Kareena Kapoor]], [[Om Puri]], [[Tinnu Anand]], [[Shakti Kapoor]], [[Rajpal Yadav]], [[Manoj Joshi (actor)|Manoj Joshi]], [[Sharat Saxena]], [[Arbaaz Khan]], [[Jackie Shroff]] and [[Suniel Shetty]].
In 2024, Priyadarshan announced the release of ''Bhooth Bangla'', a horror-comedy film starring Akshay Kumar, marking their long-awaited collaboration after 14 years.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-10 |title=Akshay Kumar begins filming of Bhooth Bangla, to release in 2026 |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/akshay-kumar-bhooth-bangla-shooting-priyadarshan-horror-comedy-poster-2647482-2024-12-10 |access-date=2025-03-30 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>
 
In August 2025, he announced his intention to retire following the completion of several landmark projects, including ''Bhoot Bangla'', ''Haiwaan'', ''[[Hera Pheri 3]]'', and a highly anticipated 100th film starring his longtime collaborator [[Mohanlal]]. He is currently filming Hindi thriller ''Haiwaan'' a remake of his own Malayalam film ''[[Oppam]]'' starring [[Akshay Kumar]] and [[Saif Ali Khan]], which will also feature a cameo appearance by [[Mohanlal]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-24 |title=Scoop: Saif Ali Khan, Priyadarshan Finalise Script For Film Inspired By Mohanlal's Oppam |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/bollywood/scoop-saif-ali-khan-priyadarshan-finalise-script-for-film-inspired-by-mohanlals-oppam-article-115625355 |access-date=2025-03-30 |website=Times Now |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Naaz |first=Fareha |date=2025-08-23 |title=Akshay Kumar teams up with Saif Ali Khan after ‘18 years’ to kickstart Priyadarshan film ‘Haiwaan’ shoot; watch video |url=https://www.livemint.com/entertainment/akshay-kumar-teams-up-with-saif-ali-khan-after-18-years-to-kickstart-priyadarshan-film-haiwaan-shoot-watch-video-11755932975632.html |access-date=2025-08-23 |website=mint |language=en}}</ref> Priyadarshan also confirmed plans to helm ''[[Hera Pheri 3]]''. The director expressed that he feels "tired" and hopes to step away from active filmmaking upon completing these projects.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Priyadarshan To Retire After 100th Film, Confirms Mohanlal's Cameo In Akshay Kumar And Saif Ali Khan's Haiwaan |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/priyadarshan-to-retire-after-100th-film-confirms-mohanlals-cameo-in-akshay-kumar-and-saif-ali-khans-haiwaan-9150412 |website=NDTV |date=23 August 2025 |access-date=24 August 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Priyadarshan announces retirement after 100th film, says he’s getting ‘tired’; reveals Mohanlal will make a cameo in Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar’s Haiwaan|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/priyadarshan-announces-retirement-after-100th-film-says-hes-getting-tired-reveals-mohanlal-will-make-a-cameo-in-saif-ali-khan-and-akshay-kumars-haiwaan-10208372/ |website=Indian Express |date=24 August 2025 |access-date=24 August 2025}}</ref>
 
== Commercials==
Priyadarshan has directed numerous [[television commercials]] films for brands such as [[Coca-Cola]], [[American Express]], [[Nokia]], [[Parker Pen Company|Parker Pens]], Asian Paints, [[Kinley (brand)|Kinley]], and [[New York Life Insurance Company|Max New York Life Insurance]].<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6762475556E91C03|title=Priyadarshan – Director's Reel|via=[[YouTube]]|access-date=10 March 2016|archive-date=25 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221225101931/https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6762475556E91C03|url-status=live}}</ref>


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
He married actress [[Lissy (Malayalam actress)|Lissy]] on 13 December 1990.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://newindianexpress.com/entertainment/interviews/article460867.ece|title=Lissy Priyadarshan, on her husband|work=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref> The couple got divorced in 2016,
He married actress [[Lissy (actress)|Lissy]] on 13 December 1990.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://newindianexpress.com/entertainment/interviews/article460867.ece|title=Lissy Priyadarshan, on her husband|work=[[The New Indian Express]]|access-date=12 February 2014|archive-date=7 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160807084145/http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/interviews/article460867.ece|url-status=dead}}</ref> They have two children, actress [[Kalyani Priyadarshan|Kalyani]] and Sidharth.<ref>{{cite news |title=Kalyani Priyadarshan on why Hello is the best film that has happened to her career |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/kalyani-priyadarshan-on-why-hello-is-the-best-film-that-has-happened-to-her-career-4291265.html/amp |work=Firstpost |access-date=12 January 2019 |archive-date=18 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180718084133/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/kalyani-priyadarshan-on-why-hello-is-the-best-film-that-has-happened-to-her-career-4291265.html/amp |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Unni |first1=K. Warrier |title=Never thought Sidharth had movies in mind: Priyadarshan on double National awards that came home. |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/interviews/2021/03/29/priyadarshan-sidharth-nationa-award-for-marakkar.html |publisher=onmanorama.com |access-date=16 September 2021 |archive-date=28 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211128201928/https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/interviews/2021/03/29/priyadarshan-sidharth-nationa-award-for-marakkar.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The couple divorced on 1 September 2016, after 26 years of marriage.<ref>{{cite news |last=Subramani |first=A. |title=Film director Priyadarshan – actor Lissy divorce formalities complete |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Film-director-Priyadarshan-actor-Lissy-divorce-formalities-complete/articleshow/54361266.cms |access-date=10 January 2018 |work=The Times of India |date=16 September 2016 |archive-date=10 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180110234132/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Film-director-Priyadarshan-actor-Lissy-divorce-formalities-complete/articleshow/54361266.cms |url-status=live}}</ref>  
actress [[Kalyani Priyadarshan|Kalyani]] and Sidharth are their children.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Unni |first1=K. Warrier |title=Never thought Sidharth had movies in mind: Priyadarshan on double National awards that came home. |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/interviews/2021/03/29/priyadarshan-sidharth-nationa-award-for-marakkar.html |publisher=onmanorama.com}}</ref>


==Filmography==
In March 2026, Priyadarshan confirmed that he had reconciled with his former wife Lissy, nearly a decade after their divorce in 2016. He stated that although they have not remarried, they are living together and sharing their lives again.<ref>{{cite news |title=Priyadarshan confirms reunion with ex-wife Lissy Says ‘We are living the same life together’ - Reports|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/priyadarshan-confirms-reunion-with-lissy-says-we-are-living-the-same-life-together-reports/articleshow/129690898.cms |work=The Times of India |date=2026-03-20}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title='ഞങ്ങൾ വിവാഹം ചെയ്തില്ല, കുടുംബം പോലെ കഴിയുന്നു'; ലിസിക്കൊപ്പം ഒന്നിച്ചെന്ന വാർത്തയിൽ പ്രിയദർശൻ |url=https://www.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/news/priyadarshan-lissy-reunion-living-together-clarification-malayalam-cinema-tw96j8wo|work=Mathrubhumi  News|date=2026-03-21}}</ref>
 
== Filmography ==
{{main|Priyadarshan filmography}}
{{main|Priyadarshan filmography}}


==Awards and honours==
==Awards and honours==
Priyadarshan has won awards, given by the State and Central government for his movies. His offbeat film ''[[Kanchivaram]]'' was adjudged the best feature film at the 2007 [[National Film Awards]]. He made a period epic film titled ''[[Kala Pani (1996 film)|Kaalapani]]'', in [[Malayalam]], which told the story of freedom fighters in the jail at [[Andaman and Nicobar Islands]]; it starred [[Mohanlal]], [[Tabu (actress)|Tabu]], [[Prabhu (actor)|Prabhu]] and [[Amrish Puri]], and received four National Film Awards, including awards for [[Santosh Sivan]] (cinematography) and [[Sabu Cyril]] (art direction). The film was dubbed and released in other languages such as Tamil, Telugu and Hindi.
Priyadarshan has received numerous awards from both the State and Central governments, as well as from various film organizations. He has won the prestigious '''[[National Film Awards|National Film Award]]''' three times and has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to Indian cinema.
 
=== National Film Awards ===
 
* '''2007''': Best Feature Film – ''Kanchivaram'' (Golden Lotus)
* '''2007''': Best Feature Film (Producer) – ''Kanchivaram'' (Golden Lotus)
* '''2019''': Best Director – ''Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea'' (Golden Lotus)<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |author=The Hindu Net Desk |date=2021-03-22 |title=67th National Film Awards: Complete list of winners |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/67th-national-film-awards-complete-list-updating/article34131921.ece |access-date=2025-03-30 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
* '''2019''': Best Feature Film – ''Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea'' (Golden Lotus)<ref name=":1" />
* '''1996''': Best Art Direction – ''Kalapani'' (Sabu Cyril)
* '''1996''': Best Cinematography – ''Kalapani'' (Santosh Sivan)
 
=== Civilian Awards ===


;Civilian Awards
* '''2012''': '''[[Padma Shri]]''' (India's fourth-highest civilian award)<ref>{{Cite web | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151015193758/http://mha.nic.in/sites/upload_files/mha/files/LST-PDAWD-2013.pdf | title=Padma Awards Directory (1954-2013) - Year-Wise List | url=http://mha.nic.in/sites/upload_files/mha/files/LST-PDAWD-2013.pdf | archive-date=2015-10-15}}</ref>
* 2012 – [[Padma Shri]]<ref name="Padma Awards">{{cite web | url=http://mha.nic.in/sites/upload_files/mha/files/LST-PDAWD-2013.pdf | title=Padma Awards | publisher=Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India | date=2015 | access-date=21 July 2015}}</ref> Awarded "Padma Shri", by the president of India for his contribution to Indian Cinema.


;[[National Film Awards]]:
=== Kerala State Film Awards ===
* [[55th National Film Awards|2007]] – [[National Film Award for Best Feature Film|Director of the Best Feature Film]] – ''[[Kanchivaram]]'' (Golden Lotus)
* [[55th National Film Awards|2007]] – [[National Film Award for Best Feature Film|Producer of the Best Feature Film]] – ''[[Kanchivaram]]'' (Golden Lotus)
* [[67th National Film Awards|2019]] – [[National Film Award for Best Feature Film|Director of the Best Feature Film]] – ''[[Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea]]'' (Golden Lotus)<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 March 2021 |title=67th National Film Awards: Complete list (updating) |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/67th-national-film-awards-complete-list-updating/article34131921.ece |work=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref>


;[[Kerala State Film Awards]]:
* '''1994''': Best Film with Popular Appeal and Aesthetic Value – ''Thenmavin Kombathu''
* 1994 – [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Popular Film|Kerala State Film Award for Best Film with Popular Appeal and Aesthetic Value]] – ''[[Thenmavin Kombath]]''
* '''1995''': Second Best Film – ''Kaalapani''
* 1995 – [[Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Film]] – ''[[Kaalapani]]''


;[[Kerala Film Critics Association Awards]]
=== Kerala Film Critics Association Awards ===
* 1991 – [[Kerala Film Critics Association Award for Best Popular Film]] – ''[[Kilukkam]]''<ref>[https://www.keralafilmcritics.com/2020/10/film-critics-awards-complete-list-from.html "കേരള ഫിലിം ക്രിട്ടിക്‌സ് അവാര്‍ഡ് 1977 - 2012"]. Kerala Film Critics Association. Retrieved 25 January 2023.</ref>
* 2016 – [[Kerala Film Critics Association Award for Best Film]] – ''[[Oppam]]''<ref name="Critics Award 2016">{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Thiruvananthapuram/film-critics-awards-announced/article17419650.ece/amp/ |work=[[The Hindu]] |title=Film critics awards announced |date=7 March 2017 |access-date=31 January 2023}}</ref>
* 2016 – [[Kerala Film Critics Association Award for Best Director]] – ''[[Oppam]]''<ref name="Critics Award 2016"/>


;[[Filmfare Awards South]]
* '''1991''': Best Popular Film – ''Kilukkam''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Critics |first=kerala Film |title=FILM CRITICS AWARDS COMPLETE LIST FROM 1977 TILL 2012 ഫിലിം ക്രിട്ടിക്‌സ് അവാര്‍ഡ് 1977 മുതല്‍ 2012 വരെ സമ്പൂര്‍ണ പട്ടിക |url=https://www.keralafilmcritics.com/2020/10/film-critics-awards-complete-list-from.html |access-date=2025-03-30 |language=en-GB}}</ref>
* 2009 – [[Filmfare Award for Best Director – Tamil]] – ''[[Kanchivaram]]''
* '''2016''': Best Film – ''Oppam''<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |author=Staff Reporter |date=2017-03-06 |title=Film critics awards announced |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Thiruvananthapuram/film-critics-awards-announced/article17419650.ece/ |access-date=2025-03-30 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
* '''2016''': Best Director – ''Oppam''<ref name=":2" />


;[[FilmFare Awards]]:
=== Filmfare Awards ===
* 1997 – [[Filmfare Critics Award for Best Film|Filmfare Award for Best Film (Critics)]] – ''[[Virasat (1997 film)|Virasat]]''


;Other Awards :
* '''1997''': Best Film (Critics) – ''[[Virasat (1997 film)|Virasat]]''
* 2008 – [[Asianet Film Awards#Special Honour Jury Award|Special Honour Jury Award]] for Outstanding contributions to Indian Cinema
* '''2009''': Best Director (Tamil) – ''[[Kanchivaram]]''
 
=== Special Recognitions ===
* 2008 – [[Asianet Film Awards#Special Honour Jury Award|Special Honour Jury Award]] – for Outstanding contributions to Indian Cinema
* 2008 – Special Jury Award at Chennai & Jaipur International Film Festival – 'Sila Samayangalil', an art movie on AIDS awareness.
* 2008 – Special Jury Award at Chennai & Jaipur International Film Festival – 'Sila Samayangalil', an art movie on AIDS awareness.
* 2010 – Jaihind Rajat Mudra Award
* 2010 – Jaihind Rajat Mudra Award
* 2016 – Asiavision Award for Best Director – ''[[Oppam]]''
* 2016 – Asiavision Award for Best Director – ''[[Oppam]]''
* 2019 – ''[[Kishore Kumar]]'' Award by the [[Government of Madhya Pradesh]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 October 2019 |title=Director Priyadarshan gets MP government's Kishore Kumar award |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/director-priyadarshan-gets-mp-government-kishore-kumar-award-6068350/ |website=[[The Indian Express]] |publication-place=[[Khandwa]]}}</ref>
* 2019 – ''[[Kishore Kumar]]'' Award by the [[Government of Madhya Pradesh]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 October 2019 |title=Director Priyadarshan gets MP government's Kishore Kumar award |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/director-priyadarshan-gets-mp-government-kishore-kumar-award-6068350/ |website=[[The Indian Express]] |publication-place=[[Khandwa]] |access-date=22 March 2021 |archive-date=22 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191022055051/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/director-priyadarshan-gets-mp-government-kishore-kumar-award-6068350/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
* 2022 – [[Honorary doctorate]] ([[Doctor of Letters|D.Litt]]) from [[Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science]].<ref name='dr'>{{Cite web |date=7 March 2022 |title=Priyadarshan felicitated with an honorary doctorate by Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/priyadarshan-felicitated-with-an-honorary-doctorate-by-hindustan-institute-of-technology-science/ |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=8 March 2022 |title=സംവിധായകന്‍ പ്രിയദര്‍ശന് ഡോക്ടറേറ്റ് |trans-title=Priyadarshan bestowed with honorary doctorate |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/movies/movie-news/2022/03/07/priyadarshan-bestowed-with-honorary-doctorate.html |website=[[Malayala Manorama]] |language=ml}}</ref>
* 2022 – [[Honorary doctorate]] ([[Doctor of Letters|D.Litt]]) –  [[Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science]].<ref name="dr">{{Cite web |date=7 March 2022 |title=Priyadarshan felicitated with an honorary doctorate by Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/priyadarshan-felicitated-with-an-honorary-doctorate-by-hindustan-institute-of-technology-science/ |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |access-date=28 March 2022 |archive-date=28 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328094635/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/priyadarshan-felicitated-with-an-honorary-doctorate-by-hindustan-institute-of-technology-science/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=8 March 2022 |title=സംവിധായകന്‍ പ്രിയദര്‍ശന് ഡോക്ടറേറ്റ് |trans-title=Priyadarshan bestowed with honorary doctorate |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/movies/movie-news/2022/03/07/priyadarshan-bestowed-with-honorary-doctorate.html |website=[[Malayala Manorama]] |language=ml |access-date=28 March 2022 |archive-date=28 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220328094635/https://www.manoramaonline.com/movies/movie-news/2022/03/07/priyadarshan-bestowed-with-honorary-doctorate.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
* 'Excellence Award', by Hindustan University, Chennai – 2013
* Kerala Government's Appointment under Ministry of Culture:
** Chairman of Kerala State Chalachithra Academy for the period 2011-2014
** Director of International Film Festival of Kerala for the period 2011–2014.


; Sports :
=== Academic and Institutional Recognitions ===


* Columnist for Malayala Manorama Newspaper for international cricket matches played in Kerala.
* '''2013''': '''Excellence Award''' – Hindustan University, Chennai
* Chairperson of the Committee of Ceremonies for the 35th National Games held in Kerala in 2015.
* '''2011-2014''': '''Chairman''' – Kerala State Chalachithra Academy
* '''2011-2014''': '''Director''' – International Film Festival of Kerala


;Social :
=== Government Appointments ===
 
*'''2001''': Chairman - Kerala State film Awards
* Rising Star Outreach of India – Served as Director from July 2014 till March 2019; Rising star is one of the largest leprosy eradication organization in the world, running welfare centres and educational institutions for leprosy affected people and their family.
*'''2022''': Chairman - National Film Awards - Best Film Friendly State
 
* '''2019''': Chairperson – Feature Films Jury, 50th International Film Festival of India (IFFI)
Government of India's appointment under Ministry of Information & Broadcasting :
* '''2016''': Central Jury Chairperson – 64th National Awards (President's Award for 2016)
Priyadarshan served as 'Chairperson', of the Feature Films Jury of the 50th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2019.
;Sports and Social Contributions:
He was the Central Jury Chairperson of 64th National Awards for 2016 (President's Award for the Year 2016 )
* Columnist – Malayala Manorama Newspaper (for international cricket matches in Kerala)
* Chairperson – Committee of Ceremonies, 35th National Games (2015)
* Director – Rising Star Outreach of India (2014–2019)


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category}}
{{commons category}}
* [http://www.directorpriyadarshan.com/ Official website]
* {{official website|directorpriyadarshan.com}}
* {{IMDb name|id=0698184|name=Priyadarshan}}
* {{IMDb name|id=0698184|name=Priyadarshan}}
* {{usurped|[https://web.archive.org/web/20100826090115/http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2006/01/21/stories/2006012100150300.htm Inauguration of his Studio – Four Frames]}}
* {{usurped|[https://web.archive.org/web/20100826090115/http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2006/01/21/stories/2006012100150300.htm Inauguration of his Studio – Four Frames]}}
*[https://www.filmibeat.com/celebs/priyadarshan/biography.html Exclusive biography of #Priyadarshan and on his life.]
*[https://www.filmibeat.com/celebs/priyadarshan/biography.html Exclusive biography of Priyadarshan and on his life]
 
* [https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/priyadarsan Priyadarshan] at [[Rotten Tomatoes]]
{{Priyadarshan}}
{{Priyadarshan}}
{{Hera Pheri}}
{{Hera Pheri}}
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[[Category:Film directors from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Film directors from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Malayalam film directors]]
[[Category:Malayalam film directors]]
[[Category:Tamil film directors]]
[[Category:Film producers from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Film producers from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Hindi-language film directors]]
[[Category:Hindi-language film directors]]
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[[Category:Filmfare Awards South winners]]
[[Category:Filmfare Awards South winners]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Padma Shri in arts]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Padma Shri in arts]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian film directors]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian people]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian film directors]]
[[Category:Malayalam screenwriters]]
[[Category:Malayalam screenwriters]]
[[Category:People from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian dramatists and playwrights]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian dramatists and playwrights]]
[[Category:Screenwriters from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Screenwriters from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Directors who won the Best Feature Film National Film Award]]
[[Category:Directors who won the Best Feature Film National Film Award]]
[[Category:Kerala Film Critics Association Awards winners]]
[[Category:Kerala Film Critics Awards winners]]
[[Category:IIFA Utsavam winners]]

Latest revision as of 18:43, 22 March 2026


Priyadarshan
Priyadarshan at a press conference for Kamaal Dhamaal Malamaal
Born
Priyadarshan Soman Nair

(1957-01-30) 30 January 1957 (age 69)
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Occupation
  • Film director
  • screenwriter
Years active1982–present
Works
Full list
Spouse(s)
​
(
m. 1990; div. 2016)
Partner(s)Lissy
(2026-present)
Children2; including Kalyani

Priyadarshan Soman Nair (born 30 January 1957)[1][2] is an Indian film director and screenwriter. He has worked primarily in Malayalam and Hindi cinema since 1982, directing over 80 films in multiple Indian languages, with notable works in Tamil and Telugu. Known for his memorable comedic films, he has received several accolades, including three National Film Awards, multiple Kerala State Film Awards, and the Padma Shri in 2012.[3] Most of his Hindi films are remakes of Malayalam films, some of which Priyadarshan helmed both versions.

He began his cinematic journey in the early 1980s, primarily working in Malayalam cinema. He directed several notable films during this period, including Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu (1986), Thalavattam (1986), Vellanakalude Nadu (1988), Chithram (1988), Vandanam (1989), and Kilukkam (1991). Throughout the 1990s, he continued directing successful films such as Abhimanyu (1991), Mithunam (1993), Thenmavin Kombath (1994), Kaalapaani (1996), Chandralekha (1997), and Megham (1999).

While working in Malayalam cinema, Priyadarshan also made his foray into Bollywood with the action thillers Gardish (1994) and Virasat (1997). In the 2000s, he gained widespread recognition in Bollywood for his Hindi adaptations of Malayalam films, particularly in the comedy genre. Some of his most notable Bollywood films include Hera Pheri (2000), Hungama (2003), Hulchul (2004), Garam Masala (2005), Bhagam Bhag (2006), Chup Chup Ke (2006), Dhol (2007), De Dana Dan (2009), and Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2008).[4][5]

Early life[edit | edit source]

Priyadarshan received his early education at the Government Model School in Thiruvananthapuram, and later a Master of Arts in Philosophy from University College Thiruvananthapuram.[6] His father, a college librarian, nurtured his love for literature, which led to a passion for storytelling. He was an avid reader in his teens, and during college, he began writing short plays and skits for All India Radio. He was influenced by the films of director P. Venu. His friends during this time included Mohanlal, M. G. Sreekumar, Suresh Kumar, Sanal Kumar, Jagadish, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Ashok Kumar. Mohanlal entered the film industry, and his friends followed him to Chennai in search of opportunities. With Mohanlal's help, Priyadarshan worked as an assistant scriptwriter on a few films and began writing his own scripts, some of which became successful. Eventually, he returned to Kerala.[7]

Though he initially aspired to become a cricketer, an eye injury shifted his focus toward filmmaking.[8]

Film career[edit | edit source]

Priyadarshan has been active in Indian cinema since 1984 as a director and screenwriter, directing over 95 films across Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu.

1984–1987[edit | edit source]

In 1984, Priyadarshan made his directorial debut with Poochakkoru Mookkuthi, a slapstick comedy produced by his friends Suresh Kumar and Sanal Kumar, with financial backing from Thiruvenkadam. Mohanlal, who had become a well-known actor by then, starred alongside Shankar as the parallel lead. The film received critical acclaim and became a commercial success, running for 100 days in Kerala theaters.[9]

Following this success, Priyadarshan continued making comedies, directing Odaruthammava Aalariyam and Onnanam Kunnil Oradi Kunnil. He then experimented with a family thriller, Parayanumvayya Parayathirikkanumvayya, starring Mammootty and Shankar. His first film without Mohanlal, Punnaram Cholli Cholli, was followed by Boeing Boeing and Aram + Aram = Kinnaram, both of which were well received.

However, Rakkuyilin Ragasadassil, despite featuring hit songs, failed at the box office. He regained success with Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu, Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi, and Dheem Tharikida Thom. The family drama Thalavattam established him as a director capable of handling serious themes, further strengthening his position in the Malayalam film industry.

During this period, Priyadarshan also directed a Tamil film, Chinnamanikkuyile, which remained unreleased. Meanwhile, his Malayalam film Cheppu achieved commercial success.

He then made Punnaram Cholli Cholli, his first film without Mohanlal, followed by Boeing Boeing and Aram + Aram = Kinnaram. He was later criticised for Rakkuyilin Ragasadassil. Despite hit songs, the film flopped. However, Mazha Peyyunnu Maddalam Kottunnu, Ayalvasi Oru Daridravasi and Dheem Tharikida Thom were successful. Priyadarshan gained recognition as a serious director with the successful family drama Thalavattam. His Tamil film Chinnamanikkuyile remained unreleased, while his work in Malayalam continued with Cheppu, which was a success.[10]

1988–1998[edit | edit source]

In 1988, Priyadarshan directed multiple films that contributed to his growing recognition in Indian cinema. Vellanakalude Nadu, scripted by Sreenivasan and starring Mohanlal, tackled themes of corruption and land mafia, becoming a significant film in his career. He then directed Aryan, an action film written by T. Damodaran, which depicted the Mumbai underworld and achieved commercial success, running for over 150 days in theaters.[11]

That same year, Chithram, a comedy-drama starring Mohanlal, was released. The film ran for 366 days in theaters, setting box office records at the time, later surpassed by his own film Kilukkam in 1991.[11] Priyadarshan's other releases in 1988 included Oru Muthassi Katha and Mukunthetta Sumitra Vilikkunnu. However, he faced setbacks in 1990 with Kadathanadan Ambadi and Akkare Akkare Akkare, which did not perform well commercially.

In 1991, Kilukkam, starring Mohanlal, Jagathi Sreekumar, and Revathi, became a box office success, further cementing Priyadarshan's reputation. His subsequent films, Abhimanyu (1991), Advaitham (1992), and Thenmavin Kombathu (1994), all ran for over 100 days in theaters.[12] Midhunam (1993) and Minnaram (1994) also received positive responses from audiences.

Priyadarshan expanded into Tamil cinema when he was invited by M. Karunanidhi to direct Gopura Vasalile for his son's production house. In 1991, he directed his first Telugu film, Nirnayam, when actor Nagarjuna approached him to remake the Malayalam film Vandanam. He made his Bollywood debut in 1992 with Muskurahat, a remake of Kilukkam, though it failed at the box office.[13]

In 1993, Priyadarshan returned to Bollywood with Gardish, an adaptation of the Malayalam film Kireedom, written by A. K. Lohithadas. In 1994, he directed his second and, to date, last Telugu film, Gandeevam, starring Balakrishna. He gained national recognition in 1996 when he directed the Miss World pageant held in Bangalore. That same year, he released Kalapani, a period drama about India's independence struggle, scripted by T. Damodaran. The film, starring Mohanlal, Tabu, Prabhu, and Amrish Puri, was originally made in Malayalam and later dubbed into Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. Kalapani won multiple awards and was widely praised for its historical narrative and cinematography.[14]

In 1997, Priyadarshan directed two commercially successful films: Chandralekha in Malayalam and Virasat in Hindi, the latter being an adaptation of Bharathan's Tamil film Thevar Magan. In 1998, he directed three Hindi films—Saat Rang Ke Sapne (a remake of Thenmavin Kombathu), Doli Saja Ke Rakhna (inspired by Aniyathi Pravu), and Kabhi Na Kabhi—all of which underperformed at the box office. In 1999, he collaborated with Mammootty for Megham, marking their first film together in several years.

2000–2016[edit | edit source]

In 2000, Priyadarshan directed Hera Pheri, a Hindi adaptation of the Malayalam film Ramji Rao Speaking (1989). The film, starring Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, Tabu, and Paresh Rawal, became a box office success and is regarded as a landmark in Hindi cinema. It also marked the beginning of a long-term collaboration between Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar,[15] while Paresh Rawal became a regular in many of his subsequent films.[16]

Following Hera Pheri, Priyadarshan directed several Hindi films, including Yeh Teraa Ghar Yeh Meraa Ghar, Hungama, Hulchul, Garam Masala, and Kyon Ki. In 2000, he also directed Raakilipattu, a bilingual Malayalam-Tamil thriller (Snegithiye in Tamil), starring Tabu and Jyothika. Adapted from the Marathi film Bindhaast, the film was notable for its all-female cast and received critical acclaim. While the Tamil version was released in 2000, the Malayalam version and a dubbed Hindi version (Friendship) were released in 2007.[17][18]

Priyadarshan's English-language epic period film titled The Last Revolutionary, produced by 20th Century Fox and based on the life of Indian freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad was planned for filming in 2001 but was eventually shelved.[19][20] During this time, Kamal Haasan was working on Anbe Sivam and approached Priyadarshan to direct it. Pre-production commenced, but Priyadarshan left the project due to creative differences, leading to Sundar C. taking over as director. In 2001, Priyadarshan directed the comedy film Kakkakuyil, reuniting Mohanlal and Mukesh, a successful duo from the 1980s and 1990s. The film became a box-office hit. However, his next two Malayalam films, Kilichundan Mampazham (2003) and Vettam (2004), had only an average performance at the box office, prompting him to shift focus toward Bollywood. In Hindi cinema, Priyadarshan maintained his success with films such as Chup Chup Ke, Bhagam Bhag, Malamaal Weekly, Dhol, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, De Dana Dan, and Mere Baap Pehle Aap. However, subsequent films like Billu, Bumm Bumm Bole, Khatta Meeta, Aakrosh, and Tezz did not meet expectations at the box office. His 2013 film Rangrezz also failed commercially.

Priyadarshan released Kanchivaram, a film about weavers in Kanchipuram. Prakash Raj won the National Film Award for Best Actor in 2008 for his performance. Kanchivaram also won awards at film festivals.[21]

Returning to Malayalam cinema, Priyadarshan directed Arabeem Ottakom P. Madhavan Nayarum in Oru Marubhoomikkadha, starring Mohanlal. However, his subsequent films Geethaanjali (2013) and Aamayum Muyalum (2014) were box-office failures.

Priyadarshan promoting Rangrezz with Jackky Bhagnani and Priya Anand in 2013

In late 2015, Priyadarshan announced a crime thriller in Malayalam with Mohanlal.[22][23] The production was confirmed, and the title Oppam was announced in December 2015. Due to weather constraints in Russia, another big-budget Mohanlal film was delayed, allowing Priyadarshan to begin work on Oppam.[24] The screenplay and dialogues, written by Priyadarshan based on a story by Govind Vijayan, received positive reviews[25] and became a blockbuster, breaking records[26] and becoming the highest-grossing Malayalam film of the year within 16 days of release.[27]

Priyadarshan at 46th International Film Festival of India in 2015

2018–present[edit | edit source]

In early 2018, Priyadarshan began pre-production on Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham, a Malayalam-language historical period film set in the 16th century. The film, starring Mohanlal, is based on the battle exploits of Kunjali Marakkar IV—the naval chieftain of the Zamorin of Calicut who organized the first naval defense of the Indian coast by safeguarding Calicut from Portuguese invasion for almost a century. The film was released on December 2, 2021, and while it received mixed reviews, it failed at the box office due to its high production costs.

Before the release of Marakkar, Priyadarshan directed a spiritual sequel to his 2003 Hindi film Hungama, titled Hungama 2. Released directly on 23 July 2021 on Disney+ Hotstar, the film received negative reviews. It was loosely based on Priyadarshan's 1994 Malayalam film Minnaram.[28]

In 2023, Priyadarshan produced and directed Corona Papers, a Malayalam film starring Shane Nigam. The film, an official remake of the Tamil film 8 Thottakkal (inspired by Akira Kurosawa's 1949 Stray Dog), was released on April 6, 2023. It received positive reviews and was a moderate success at the box office.[29]

In the same year, Priyadarshan directed the Tamil film Appatha, starring Urvashi in the lead role. Released directly on 29 July 2023 on JioCinema, the film was celebrated as Urvashi's 700th project and was showcased at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Film Festival.[30][31][32]

In 2024, Priyadarshan announced the release of Bhooth Bangla, a horror-comedy film starring Akshay Kumar, marking their long-awaited collaboration after 14 years.[33]

In August 2025, he announced his intention to retire following the completion of several landmark projects, including Bhoot Bangla, Haiwaan, Hera Pheri 3, and a highly anticipated 100th film starring his longtime collaborator Mohanlal. He is currently filming Hindi thriller Haiwaan a remake of his own Malayalam film Oppam starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, which will also feature a cameo appearance by Mohanlal.[34][35] Priyadarshan also confirmed plans to helm Hera Pheri 3. The director expressed that he feels "tired" and hopes to step away from active filmmaking upon completing these projects.[36][37]

Commercials[edit | edit source]

Priyadarshan has directed numerous television commercials films for brands such as Coca-Cola, American Express, Nokia, Parker Pens, Asian Paints, Kinley, and Max New York Life Insurance.[38]

Personal life[edit | edit source]

He married actress Lissy on 13 December 1990.[39] They have two children, actress Kalyani and Sidharth.[40][41] The couple divorced on 1 September 2016, after 26 years of marriage.[42]

In March 2026, Priyadarshan confirmed that he had reconciled with his former wife Lissy, nearly a decade after their divorce in 2016. He stated that although they have not remarried, they are living together and sharing their lives again.[43][44]

Filmography[edit | edit source]

Main article: Priyadarshan filmography

Awards and honours[edit | edit source]

Priyadarshan has received numerous awards from both the State and Central governments, as well as from various film organizations. He has won the prestigious National Film Award three times and has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to Indian cinema.

National Film Awards[edit | edit source]

  • 2007: Best Feature Film – Kanchivaram (Golden Lotus)
  • 2007: Best Feature Film (Producer) – Kanchivaram (Golden Lotus)
  • 2019: Best Director – Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea (Golden Lotus)[45]
  • 2019: Best Feature Film – Marakkar: Lion of the Arabian Sea (Golden Lotus)[45]
  • 1996: Best Art Direction – Kalapani (Sabu Cyril)
  • 1996: Best Cinematography – Kalapani (Santosh Sivan)

Civilian Awards[edit | edit source]

Kerala State Film Awards[edit | edit source]

  • 1994: Best Film with Popular Appeal and Aesthetic Value – Thenmavin Kombathu
  • 1995: Second Best Film – Kaalapani

Kerala Film Critics Association Awards[edit | edit source]

  • 1991: Best Popular Film – Kilukkam[47]
  • 2016: Best Film – Oppam[48]
  • 2016: Best Director – Oppam[48]

Filmfare Awards[edit | edit source]

Special Recognitions[edit | edit source]

Academic and Institutional Recognitions[edit | edit source]

  • 2013: Excellence Award – Hindustan University, Chennai
  • 2011-2014: Chairman – Kerala State Chalachithra Academy
  • 2011-2014: Director – International Film Festival of Kerala

Government Appointments[edit | edit source]

  • 2001: Chairman - Kerala State film Awards
  • 2022: Chairman - National Film Awards - Best Film Friendly State
  • 2019: Chairperson – Feature Films Jury, 50th International Film Festival of India (IFFI)
  • 2016: Central Jury Chairperson – 64th National Awards (President's Award for 2016)
Sports and Social Contributions
  • Columnist – Malayala Manorama Newspaper (for international cricket matches in Kerala)
  • Chairperson – Committee of Ceremonies, 35th National Games (2015)
  • Director – Rising Star Outreach of India (2014–2019)

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Happy Birthday Priyadarshan: Mohanlal, Riteish Deshmukh, and others wish Nimir director". The Indian Express. 30 January 2018. Archived from the original on 2 December 2021. Retrieved 2 December 2021.
  2. ↑ "Priyadarshan - Film Director - Official Website". directorpriyadarshan.com. Retrieved 12 April 2025.
  3. ↑ "Happy Birthday, Priyadarshan: Reasons why he is a master at handling every film genres". The Times of India. 30 January 2022. Retrieved 2 September 2025.
  4. ↑ "Priyadarshan birthday special: Top 10 comedy movies starring Akshay Kumar, Shahid Kapoor and more that you can watch again and again". 30 January 2023.
  5. ↑ "9 Priyadarshan Movies That Are So Funny You Won't Even Want to Pause for a Second". 24 August 2024.
  6. ↑ "University College, Thiruvananthapuram – University College, Thiruvananthapuram". 3 December 2024. Retrieved 24 March 2025.
  7. ↑ "Trivandrum days". The Hindu. 29 January 2010. Archived from the original on 5 December 2014. Retrieved 13 September 2014.
  8. ↑ "What made Priyadarshan give up cricket?". The Times of India. 1 October 2012. Archived from the original on 30 March 2024. Retrieved 30 March 2024.
  9. ↑ "#FilmyFriday! Poochakkoru Mookkuthi: A screwball comedy that will leave you glued to your screens!". The Times of India. 18 March 2022. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  10. ↑ "Priyadarshan – the man at 66, and the director at 39". The Indian Express. 30 January 2023. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 "Priyan and I share a special bond: Mohanlal". The Times of India. 24 January 2017. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  12. ↑ "25 Years Of Kilukkam: Some Interesting Facts About The Film!". www.filmibeat.com. 26 August 2016. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  13. ↑ Muskurahat (1992) - User reviews - IMDb. Retrieved 30 March 2025 – via www.imdb.com.
  14. ↑ "43rd National Film Festival 1996" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 April 2023.
  15. ↑ "Revisiting Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan's iconic collaborations". English.Mathrubhumi. 30 September 2024. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  16. ↑ "Hera Pheri - Movie - Box Office India". www.boxofficeindia.com. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  17. ↑ "Snegithiye (2000)". IMDb. Archived from the original on 27 October 2022. Retrieved 21 March 2011.
  18. ↑ "Howzzat? Priyan film releases and goes unnoticed!". Archived from the original on 13 June 2011.
  19. ↑ "rediff.com, Movies:'I'm a greedy filmmaker':Priyadarshan". rediff.com. Archived from the original on 24 January 2021. Retrieved 25 March 2020.
  20. ↑ "Bachchan Jr to star in international project". The Times of India. 12 August 2001. Archived from the original on 13 March 2019. Retrieved 25 March 2020.
  21. ↑ "'Kanchivaram' wins national award for best feature film". The Hindu. 7 September 2009. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  22. ↑ Menon, Akhila (6 November 2015). "WHAT! Mohanlal Says No To Priyadarshan?". Filmibeat. Archived from the original on 8 June 2016. Retrieved 16 March 2016.
  23. ↑ Vikram, Raj (6 November 2015). "Mohanlal to play a blind man in Priyadarshan's 73 rd movie". Metromatinee.com. Archived from the original on 28 March 2016. Retrieved 16 March 2016.
  24. ↑ James, Anu (15 December 2015). "Mohanlal-Priyadarshan to join hands for small budget film before Russian project?". International Business Times. Archived from the original on 31 March 2016. Retrieved 16 March 2016.
  25. ↑ James, Anu (9 September 2016). "'Oppam' critics review: Comeback movie of Mohanlal, Priyadarshan duo". International Business Times. Archived from the original on 5 January 2018. Retrieved 13 September 2016.
  26. ↑ "Oppam Box Office Collection: 6 Records Broken by the Mohanlal Starrer!". filmibeat.com. 28 September 2016. Archived from the original on 25 March 2020. Retrieved 25 March 2020.
  27. ↑ "Oppam Beats Jacobinte Swargarajyam to be the Biggest Hit of 2016!". Archived from the original on 2 October 2016. Retrieved 29 September 2016.
  28. ↑ "Shilpa Shetty's Hungama 2 to premiere on Disney+Hotstar on July 23". 30 June 2021. Archived from the original on 30 June 2021. Retrieved 4 May 2023.
  29. ↑ "Corona Papers Review | an Elaborate and Restructured Version of 8 Thottakkal with a Superb Sidhique". 6 April 2023. Archived from the original on 12 April 2023. Retrieved 4 May 2023.
  30. ↑ "Urvasi's 700th film 'Appatha' to be screened at the Shangai Cooperation Organisation Film Festival". The Times of India. 27 January 2023. ISSN 0971-8257. Archived from the original on 31 July 2023. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  31. ↑ "Urvashi's 700th film 'Appatha' premieres directly on OTT from July 29". The Times of India. 24 July 2023. ISSN 0971-8257. Archived from the original on 24 July 2023. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  32. ↑ "Priyadarshan's 'Appatha' to open Shanghai Cooperation Organisation film festival". India Today. 26 January 2023. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  33. ↑ "Akshay Kumar begins filming of Bhooth Bangla, to release in 2026". India Today. 10 December 2024. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  34. ↑ "Scoop: Saif Ali Khan, Priyadarshan Finalise Script For Film Inspired By Mohanlal's Oppam". Times Now. 24 November 2024. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  35. ↑ Naaz, Fareha (23 August 2025). "Akshay Kumar teams up with Saif Ali Khan after '18 years' to kickstart Priyadarshan film 'Haiwaan' shoot; watch video". mint. Retrieved 23 August 2025.
  36. ↑ "Priyadarshan To Retire After 100th Film, Confirms Mohanlal's Cameo In Akshay Kumar And Saif Ali Khan's Haiwaan". NDTV. 23 August 2025. Retrieved 24 August 2025.
  37. ↑ "Priyadarshan announces retirement after 100th film, says he's getting 'tired'; reveals Mohanlal will make a cameo in Saif Ali Khan and Akshay Kumar's Haiwaan". Indian Express. 24 August 2025. Retrieved 24 August 2025.
  38. ↑ Priyadarshan – Director's Reel. Archived from the original on 25 December 2022. Retrieved 10 March 2016 – via YouTube.
  39. ↑ "Lissy Priyadarshan, on her husband". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 7 August 2016. Retrieved 12 February 2014.
  40. ↑ "Kalyani Priyadarshan on why Hello is the best film that has happened to her career". Firstpost. Archived from the original on 18 July 2018. Retrieved 12 January 2019.
  41. ↑ Unni, K. Warrier. "Never thought Sidharth had movies in mind: Priyadarshan on double National awards that came home". onmanorama.com. Archived from the original on 28 November 2021. Retrieved 16 September 2021.
  42. ↑ Subramani, A. (16 September 2016). "Film director Priyadarshan – actor Lissy divorce formalities complete". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 10 January 2018. Retrieved 10 January 2018.
  43. ↑ "Priyadarshan confirms reunion with ex-wife Lissy Says 'We are living the same life together' - Reports". The Times of India. 20 March 2026.
  44. ↑ "'ഞങ്ങൾ വിവാഹം ചെയ്തില്ല, കുടുംബം പോലെ കഴിയുന്നു'; ലിസിക്കൊപ്പം ഒന്നിച്ചെന്ന വാർത്തയിൽ പ്രിയദർശൻ". Mathrubhumi News. 21 March 2026.
  45. ↑ 45.0 45.1 The Hindu Net Desk (22 March 2021). "67th National Film Awards: Complete list of winners". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  46. ↑ "Padma Awards Directory (1954-2013) - Year-Wise List" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 October 2015.
  47. ↑ Critics, kerala Film. "FILM CRITICS AWARDS COMPLETE LIST FROM 1977 TILL 2012 ഫിലിം ക്രിട്ടിക്‌സ് അവാര്‍ഡ് 1977 മുതല്‍ 2012 വരെ സമ്പൂര്‍ണ പട്ടിക". Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  48. ↑ 48.0 48.1 Staff Reporter (6 March 2017). "Film critics awards announced". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
  49. ↑ "Director Priyadarshan gets MP government's Kishore Kumar award". The Indian Express. Khandwa. 14 October 2019. Archived from the original on 22 October 2019. Retrieved 22 March 2021.
  50. ↑ "Priyadarshan felicitated with an honorary doctorate by Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science". Bollywood Hungama. 7 March 2022. Archived from the original on 28 March 2022. Retrieved 28 March 2022.
  51. ↑ "സംവിധായകന്‍ പ്രിയദര്‍ശന് ഡോക്ടറേറ്റ്" [Priyadarshan bestowed with honorary doctorate]. Malayala Manorama (in മലയാളം). 8 March 2022. Archived from the original on 28 March 2022. Retrieved 28 March 2022.

External links[edit | edit source]

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