Remembering S Ramachandra: Cornerstone of Kannada’s parallel cinema

Ramachandra, popularly known as Ramu, blended technical precision with artistic depth to shape the visual language of Kannada cinema

Shivaramaiah Ramachandra Aithal, popularly known as S Ramachandra, was a key figure behind the parallel movement in Kannada cinema. Known as Ramu to most, he was highly respected and his excellence in cinematography shines through in films such as Pallavi, Kankana, Parasangada Gende Thimma, Chomana Dudi, Gulabi Talkies, Grahana, Mane and Rishya Shrunga, among others.

Ramachandra passed away 15 years ago; had he been alive, 2026 would have been his 55th year of entering the Kannada cinema scene as an independent cinematographer. The recently concluded edition of BIFFes marked the occasion by screening Krourya, directed by Girish Kasaravalli. At an event there, Ramachandra’s associates and filmmakers, recalled his craft and commitment, as well as his ethics of cinema.

Speaking to The Hindu, Girish Kasaravalli described Ramachandra as a cornerstone of the parallel film movement in Kannada and a vital collaborator who worked on eight of his films. Kasaravalli said, “He was a versatile, supportive force behind offbeat cinema,” and added he played a crucial role in mentoring young directors. 

Cinematographer GS Bhaskar said, “Ramachandra remained dedicated to the cause of the New Wave Cinema and was instrumental in positioning Karnataka on the world map of meaningful cinema.”

Throughout his career, Ramachandra blended technical precision with artistic depth to shape the visual language of Kannada art cinema in over 75 films.

Recalling time spent with her father, Varsha Ramachandra says, “Despite being absent for long periods of time because of his profession, he was a loving father to my sister and me. He did not stop me from watching any kind of movies, neither did he differentiate between genres. He was more a friend than a father.”