Balanathan Benjamin Mahendran, widely recognized as Balu Mahendra, was a multifaceted Indian film professional who excelled in various roles, including cinematographer, director, screenwriter, and film editor. Born into a Sri Lankan Tamil household, Mahendra's early life was marked by a profound interest in photography and literature, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
As a young boy, Mahendra was deeply fascinated by the world of filmmaking, and his fascination was further ignited when he witnessed the filming of David Lean's iconic movie, The Bridge on the River Kwai, in Sri Lanka. This experience sparked a burning desire within him to pursue a career in the film industry.
Before venturing into filmmaking, Mahendra began his career as a literary editor, honing his skills and building his expertise in the field. However, his passion for film-making eventually led him to apply for admission to the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII),where he pursued a course in cinematography.
Mahendra's entry into the film industry as a cinematographer in the early 1970s marked the beginning of his illustrious career. Over the years, he gradually rose through the ranks to become a renowned film-maker, leaving an indelible mark on the Indian film industry by the end of the decade.
