Santosh Sivan, a renowned Indian cinematographer, has been awarded the prestigious Pierre Angénieux ExcelLens in Cinematography at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first Asian to earn this honour. Actor Preity Zinta presented him with a prize at the Palais de Festivals, recognising his ‘career and excellent quality of work.
Santosh, an FTII Pune graduate and founding member of the Indian Society of Cinematographers, has worked on over 55 films and 50 documentaries. His famous works include “Roja,” “Dil Se,” “Iruvar,” and “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.” He has also directed over 15 films, including “Asoka” and “The Terrorist.”
Santosh joins a remarkable group of previous honorees, which includes Edward Lachman and Roger Deakins. Actor Mohanlal congratulated him, expressing his delight at witnessing this historic event. Santosh is now working on Mohanlal’s forthcoming film, “Barroz.”
Previously, he also won 17 National Awards and six Filmfare Awards and is the only Indian member of the American Society of Cinematographers. His overseas efforts include “Bride and Prejudice” and “Meenaxi,” and he has been awarded the Padma Shri.
Celebrities including Shah Rukh Khan and directors Shekhar Kapur and Mira Nair paid tribute to Santosh. Aditi Rao Hydari, from Mani Ratnam’s “Chekka Chivantha Vaanam,” was a special guest at the occasion.
